President Tinubu
Olayiwola Mercy
President Bola Tinubu has directed all political appointees in his administration seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign their appointments on or before March 31, 2026. This directive applies to ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, and personal assistants to the President, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal government parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies.
The President’s decision is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws, promoting transparency, and creating a level playing field for all aspirants ahead of the elections. The directive is pursuant to Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries.
According to the circular signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, all affected officials are required to submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the SGF not later than March 31, 2026. This move is seen as a necessary step to prevent the use of public office and resources to gain an unfair advantage during party primaries.
The directive is part of President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible electoral processes in Nigeria. He urged all concerned President’s officials to take note of this directive and ensure strict compliance.
The affected officials include those in various positions, such as Honourable Ministers, Ministers of State, Special Advisers to the President, and Directors-General of federal government parastatals, agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies. The President’s decision is in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the INEC timetable for party primaries.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the timetable for the 2027 general elections, moving the presidential and National Assembly elections to January 16, 2027, and governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections to February 6, 2027.
President Tinubu’s directive is seen as a move to ensure transparency and fairness in the electoral process, preventing conflicts of interest among public office holders seeking elective positions. The administration remains committed to credible electoral processes and strengthening democratic institutions.
