President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees in his administration intending to contest elective positions in the 2027 elections to resign on or before March 31.

The directive was announced on Tuesday by the Head of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Mr. Dewan Goshit.

Goshit explained that the decision aligns with 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 order applies to all categories of presidential political appointees seeking nomination or participation in party primaries.

Those affected include ministers, ministers of state, special advisers, senior special assistants, special assistants, personal assistants, as well as directors-general and chief executive officers of federal agencies, commissions, parastatals, and government-owned companies.

According to Goshit, affected officials are required to submit their resignation letters through the office of the SGF by the stipulated deadline.

“President Tinubu emphasised that the measure is necessary 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 statement read.

The President also urged strict adherence to the directive, reiterating his administration’s commitment to credible electoral processes and the strengthening of democratic institutions.