President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest elective positions to resign their appointments on or before March 31st.
The directive, communicated through official channels of the presidency, mandates that any individual currently holding a political appointment and aspiring to run for public office must vacate their position within the stipulated timeline. The move is understood to be in compliance with existing electoral provisions and to ensure that public office is not used as an undue advantage during political contests. 
While the next general elections are not immediately due, precedents in Nigeria’s political space show that alignments, consultations, and strategic withdrawals often begin years ahead of the actual polls. By insisting on a March 31st resignation deadline, the presidency is effectively reinforcing the principle that individuals seeking elective office must not continue to occupy appointed government roles while pursuing their aspirations. This approach aligns with provisions in Nigeria’s electoral framework, which require public office holders to step down ahead of party primaries. The Electoral Act stipulates that political appointees must disengage from their roles before taking part in party nomination processes, thereby preventing conflicts of interest and the misuse of state resources for political gain.
Historically, similar directives have been issued at both federal and state levels. In previous election cycles, governments have required appointees to resign ahead of primaries in compliance with electoral guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission. These measures are often enforced to ensure transparency and fairness within the political system.
The latest directive from the presidency also reflects an effort to maintain administrative focus within government institutions. By asking politically ambitious appointees to step aside, the administration seeks to avoid a situation where governance is disrupted by divided attention or internal political campaigning within official structures.
Within the ruling All Progressives Congress, the directive is expected to influence internal party dynamics, particularly as aspirants begin consultations and coalition-building efforts. Political parties in Nigeria traditionally organise primaries months before general elections, and early resignation provides aspirants with sufficient time to prepare, mobilise support, and engage stakeholders.
As the March 31st deadline approaches, attention is expected to shift toward identifying which appointees will resign and which will remain in their roles.
Samuel Aina