Edo resignation order directs public servants and appointees to resign before contesting in the 2027 general elections

The Edo State Government has directed all public servants and political appointees seeking to contest elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 1, 2026, in compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026.

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The directive was conveyed in an official government announcement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, who said the measure forms part of efforts to ensure lawful participation in the upcoming electoral process.

According to the statement, the Edo resignation order applies to all government functionaries serving in any capacity within the Edo State Public Service who intend to participate in party primaries or any stage of the electoral cycle.

Umar Musa Ikhilor explained that adherence to the directive would prevent potential disqualification of aspirants by electoral authorities while reinforcing compliance with statutory regulations governing political participation by public office holders.

The Secretary to the State Government noted that the policy was introduced to promote transparency, fairness and a credible political environment ahead of the 2027 polls.

He added that maintaining institutional neutrality remained essential, stressing that official responsibilities must not be undermined by partisan political engagements.

The government further advised affected officers to take immediate steps to comply with the Edo resignation order within the stipulated timeline, warning that failure to do so could attract legal consequences under electoral guidelines.

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Political observers say the directive represents a decisive administrative move aimed at safeguarding the integrity of public institutions as early political alignments begin to shape the next general election cycle.