President Bola Tinubu threatens to fire Nigerian officials eyeing 2027 seats who refuse to quit by March

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the corridors of power in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu has issued a definitive ultimatum to every political appointee harboring ambitions for the 2027 general elections. The Nigerian leader has mandated that any official planning to swap their current desk for a campaign trail must submit a formal resignation by March 31, 2026.

This sweeping directive targets a broad spectrum of the administration, from high ranking ministers and directors general to special advisers and personal assistants. According to a circular released by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the order ensures the presidency remains in strict alignment with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 and the Independent National Electoral Commission’s upcoming primary schedule.

George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, emphasized that the instruction is designed to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process. By forcing an early exit for those seeking elective office, the administration aims to prevent the misuse of public resources for private political gain and to maintain a level playing field for all Nigerian aspirants.

While the move is framed as a commitment to transparency and the rule of law, it effectively forces a premature cabinet shakeup. Officials who fail to comply with the March deadline risk unceremonious removal as the President seeks to insulate his current governance agenda from the inevitable distractions of the 2027 election cycle.