**2027 Elections: Tinubu Orders Appointees to Resign Before Contesting** In a move to maintain the integrity of the electoral process, President Bola Tinubu has asked all political appointees who intend to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign by March 31, 2026. This directive affects various categories of presidential appointees, including ministers, special advisers, senior special assistants, directors-general, and CEOs of government-owned companies. According to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, this decision is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, and the INEC's timetable for party primaries. To facilitate a smooth transition, affected officials are required to submit their formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation by March 31, 2026. This development is a crucial step in ensuring that Nigeria's electoral process remains free from conflicts of interest. By resigning from their positions, appointees can avoid any perceived or actual advantage that may come with their official roles. It is worth noting that this directive is not unique to Nigeria. In many countries, electoral laws prohibit public officials from using their positions to influence the outcome of elections. In Nigeria, the Electoral Act, 2026, is designed to promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process. For Nigerian readers, this directive may be seen as a necessary step towards strengthening the country's democracy. By maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, President Tinubu's administration is committed to ensuring that all citizens have an equal opportunity to participate in the democratic process.