Kano Governor Orders Politically Ambitious Appointees To Step Down

The Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, has directed all political appointees intending to participate in the 2027 general elections to resign from their positions by March 31, 2026. According to Ireporter Online, the directive is part of efforts to uphold Nigeria’s Electoral Act and ensure fairness in the upcoming elections.

The order was issued through a circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, and communicated by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa. The government emphasized that public office holders must step down if they plan to contest in party primaries or elections, in accordance with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026.

The legislation is designed to prevent abuse of office, maintain neutrality in public service, and create a level playing field for all election aspirants. The circular further instructed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to disseminate the directive widely and ensure compliance.

The statement reads in part: “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.”

Similar measures are being implemented in other states and at the federal level. President Bola Tinubu has also called on political appointees interested in the 2027 elections to step down by March 31, 2026, ahead of party primaries. Niger State has introduced comparable regulations to uphold electoral laws and strengthen public confidence in the political process.