Kano State governor, Abba Yusuf has directed all political appointees intending to contest in the 2026 general elections to resign their positions in line with provisions of the Electoral Act.
The directive, announced on Wednesday in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa, reinforces compliance with electoral regulations governing public office holders.
According to the statement, the order was conveyed through an official circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, stressing strict adherence to existing 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 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 read.
Compliance directive
The state government also directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to give the circular wide publicity and ensure full compliance.
The move forms part of broader efforts by the administration to align with electoral guidelines and strengthen transparency ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Electoral context
The directive 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 institutional neutrality, and promote fairness among aspirants.
Similar measures have been adopted at other levels of government. President Bola Tinubu had earlier 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.
Likewise, some state governments, including Niger State, have issued similar directives requiring appointees to step down ahead of party primaries.
These developments reflect growing efforts to strengthen transparency, reduce incumbency advantage, and reinforce public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the Kano State Government / Office of the Governor / File Photo2027 elections.
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