2027: Resign by March 31, Tinubu orders appointees seeking elective offices

President Bola Tinubu has directed all political appointees serving in his administration who intend to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign their appointments on or before March 31, 2026.The presidential mandate, which targets ministers, heads of agencies and aides, is aimed at ensuring strict adherence to the country’s legal framework and maintaining the integrity of the upcoming electoral cycle.According to a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation OSGF, the directive is “pursuant to the provisions of Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries.”The circular, signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, and released by the Permanent Secretary (General Services Office), Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, clarifies that the resignation requirement applies to a broad spectrum of officials.These include “Honourable Ministers, Honourable Ministers of State, Special Advisers to the President, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, and Personal Assistants to the President.”The order further extends to “all Directors-General and Chief Executive Officers of Federal Government Parastatals, Agencies, Commissions, and Government-owned Companies,” as well as any other political appointees seeking nomination for elective office.President Tinubu emphasized that the measure is a necessary step to “ensure full compliance with electoral laws, uphold transparency in the political process, and promote a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections.”The directive, communicated through Dewan Nengak Goshit, Head of Information and Public Relations for the OSGF, requires all affected officials to submit their formal resignation letters through the SGF’s office no later than the March 31 deadline.By enforcing this timeline, the administration seeks to prevent the use of public office and resources to gain an unfair advantage during party primaries.The President reaffirmed his commitment to “strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible electoral processes in Nigeria,” urging all concerned officials to ensure strict compliance with the order.