Aiyedatiwa orders political appointees eyeing 2027 elections to resign
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed all political appointees intending to contest the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026. The directive was
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed all political appointees intending to contest the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive was conveyed in an advisory issued Tuesday night by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo.
The move comes less than 24 hours after the governor dismissed all his political aides in a sweeping effort to improve efficiency within his administration.
Those affected include Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Special Assistants (SAs) to the governor.
Titled “Advisory Directive on Resignation Requirements for Civil Servants and Political Appointees in Ondo State Intending to Contest the 2027 General Elections,” the document outlined conditions for public officers seeking elective positions.
According to the advisory, political appointees must submit formal resignation letters through the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) within the stipulated deadline.
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Ajulo said the directive aims to ensure legal clarity, promote transparency, and uphold neutrality in the public service, while preventing disqualification or electoral disputes ahead of the polls.
He explained that while civil servants are constitutionally required to resign at least 30 days before an election, political appointees are expected to step down earlier to participate fully in party primaries.
Citing relevant constitutional provisions, the advisory noted that failure by civil servants to resign within the stipulated timeframe would render them ineligible to contest, with possible disqualification by the electoral body or through judicial action.
The statement, however, clarified that political appointees are not bound by the 30-day constitutional rule but must resign before taking part in party primaries or nomination processes, in line with the Electoral Act, 2026.
The government said early resignation would allow appointees to engage freely in political activities, avoid conflicts of interest, and comply with party requirements.
It also warned that public officers who engage in partisan politics while still in service risk disciplinary action.
Heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies were directed to ensure compliance and notify the appropriate authorities.
The advisory emphasised that it does not introduce new laws but serves as a clarification of existing constitutional and statutory provisions.
