Kano Governor Directs Appointees Pursuing Political Seats to Step Down by March 31

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has issued a directive requiring all political appointees who plan to run in the 2026 general elections to step down from their positions, in accordance with the Electoral Act's provisions.

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This directive was outlined in a statement released on Wednesday by the governor's spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa, which conveyed the governor's order to ensure compliance with electoral laws.

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The order was formally communicated through an official circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, who emphasized the importance of adhering to existing electoral laws, particularly Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026.

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This section of the Electoral Act regulates the participation of public office holders in partisan political activities, and the state government's decision aims to promote neutrality, accountability, and integrity in the public service.

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The measure also seeks to create a level playing field for all aspirants, and as such, political appointees who intend to contest in the forthcoming elections are required to resign or retire on or before Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

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The state government has also instructed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to widely publicize the circular and ensure full compliance with the directive.

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This directive is part of the administration's efforts to align with electoral guidelines and strengthen transparency in the political process ahead of the 2026 general elections.

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Abba Yusuf's directive requiring political appointees to resign before seeking elective office is consistent with Nigeria's electoral legal framework and recent political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act provides guidelines for public office holders participating in partisan politics, requiring certain appointees to step down before contesting party primaries or elections to prevent abuse of office and ensure neutrality.

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This provision aims to promote a level playing field among aspirants, and similar directives have been issued at the federal and state levels as political actors prepare for the next electoral cycle.

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For example, President Bola Tinubu has 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 Independent National Electoral Commission's timetable for party primaries.

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Similarly, some state governments, such as Niger State, have implemented comparable measures, directing political appointees to resign ahead of party primaries to ensure compliance with electoral regulations.

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These developments reflect broader efforts by governments to strengthen transparency, reduce incumbency advantage, and reinforce public confidence in Nigeria's democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.