The Kwara State Government and Cross River State Government have directed public officials intending to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign from their positions in line with constitutional provisions and electoral guidelines.

In Kwara, the directive was contained in a circular dated March 13, 2026, and signed by Dr Okedare Adeyinka on behalf of the Head of Service.

The circular, addressed to heads of government establishments, reiterated that civil servants seeking elective offices must step down from service.

“Consequent on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s issuance of a revised timetable… civil servants who seek elective public offices are to resign their appointments,” the circular stated.

It added that the directive is in line with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), particularly the Code of Conduct for public officers, as well as relevant provisions of the Public Service Rules.

Similarly, Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has ordered members of the State Executive Council and all political appointees intending to contest elections to resign on or before March 26, 2026.

Speaking during a State Executive Council meeting, Otu stressed the need to maintain focus in governance and avoid distractions associated with early political activities.

“Public office is a sacred trust and must never be conflated with personal political ambition,” the governor said.

He described the directive as a principled decision aimed at ensuring discipline, accountability, and uninterrupted governance, adding that it aligns with global best practices.

The developments come amid preparations for the 2027 polls, following the release of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) timetable.

According to INEC, party primaries are scheduled to hold between April 23 and May 30, 2026, while the presidential and National Assembly elections are fixed for January 16, 2027, and governorship and state assembly elections for February 6, 2027.

At the federal level, President Bola Tinubu has also directed political appointees seeking elective offices to resign on or before March 31, 2026, reinforcing a nationwide push for compliance with electoral laws.