President Bola Tinubu has ordered all political appointees in his administration who intend to contest in the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive was conveyed through a circular issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and signed by the SGF, George Akume.
According to the statement, the decision aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of party primaries.
Further details in the circular, endorsed by the Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Kana, indicate that the directive affects all categories of presidential appointees planning to seek elective positions.
Those impacted include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal aides, as well as heads of federal agencies, parastatals, commissions, and government-owned enterprises.
The government instructed that all resignation letters must be formally submitted through the SGF’s office before the stated deadline.
Tinubu explained that the move is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral regulations, enhancing transparency, and providing a fair environment for all aspirants.
He urged affected officials to adhere strictly to the directive, reiterating his administration’s commitment to credible elections and the strengthening of democratic processes in Nigeria.
