The Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has directed all political appointees intending to contest in the 2026 general elections to resign their appointments in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
The directive was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa.
According to the statement, the order was conveyed through an official circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, emphasising the need for strict adherence to extant electoral laws.
The circular noted that the decision aligns with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which regulates the participation of public office holders in partisan political activities.
It added that the measure is aimed at promoting neutrality, accountability and integrity in the public service, while ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.
“Political appointees who intend to contest in the forthcoming elections are required to resign or retire, as applicable, on or before Tuesday, March 31, 2026,” the statement partly read.
The state government also directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies to give the circular wide publicity and ensure full compliance.
The directive forms part of efforts by the administration to align with electoral guidelines and strengthen transparency in the political process ahead of the 2026 general elections.
PUNCH Online reports that Yusuf’s directive requiring political appointees seeking elective office to resign is consistent with Nigeria’s electoral legal framework and recent political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act provides guidelines regulating the participation of public office holders in partisan politics, particularly requiring certain categories of appointees to step down before contesting party primaries or elections. The provision is designed to prevent abuse of office, ensure neutrality of public institutions and promote a level playing field among aspirants.
Similar directives have recently been issued at the federal and state levels as political actors begin preparations for the next electoral cycle. For instance, President Bola Tinubu directed political appointees interested in contesting the 2027 elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026, in line with the Electoral Act and the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries.
Likewise, some state governments have implemented comparable measures to ensure compliance with electoral regulations. In Niger State, political appointees intending to contest elections were directed to resign ahead of party primaries, with officials noting that the requirement aligns with electoral guidelines governing participation in elections.
These developments reflect broader efforts by governments at different levels to strengthen transparency, reduce incumbency advantage and reinforce public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections
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