By Our Reporter 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees in his administration seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026.

The directive was disclosed on Tuesday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, in a statement made available to journalists through the Head of Information and Public Relations in the SGF’s office, Dewan Nengak Goshit.

According to the statement, the President’s directive is in line with the provisions of Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the 2027 polls.

The circular, signed by the SGF and issued by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, clarified that the resignation requirement applies to all categories of presidential political appointees intending to participate in party primaries or seek nomination for elective positions.

Those affected include 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 statement further directed that all affected officials must submit their resignation letters through the Office of the SGF not later than the stipulated deadline.

President Tinubu said the measure was necessary to ensure compliance with electoral laws, promote transparency in the political process, and guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants.

He urged all concerned officials to adhere strictly to the directive, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring credible electoral processes in Nigeria.