‎Ministers, appointees eyeing 2027 elections must resign by March 31 – Tinubu

‎ABUJA — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered all political appointees in his administration who intend to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
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‎The directive, conveyed in an official circular issued through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, applies to ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, and heads of federal agencies, commissions, and government-owned companies.
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‎According to the circular signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, the resignation requirement covers all presidential appointees seeking to participate in party primaries or contest for any elective office ahead of the 2027 polls.
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‎The document stated that affected officials must submit their resignation letters through the SGF’s office not later than March 31.
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‎The directive follows the timetable for political party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections, which requires political appointees to step down before taking part in nomination processes.
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‎The Presidency said the move is intended to ensure compliance with electoral rules governing participation in party primaries by public office holders.
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‎The order is expected to trigger changes within the Federal Executive Council and other government agencies, as several appointees are believed to be preparing to seek governorship, legislative, and other elective positions in the next election cycle.