Edo State Government has directed all public servants, political appointees, and government functionaries who intend to contest for any elective position in the forthcoming electoral cycle to tender their resignation on or before March 1, 2026, before participating in any party primaries or electoral process.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to a statement by Umar Musa Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), the directive is issued in strict compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026, and is aimed at ensuring that all aspiring candidates do not run the risk of disqualification by the relevant electoral authorities.
The state government emphasised that this requirement is intended to promote fairness, transparency, and a level playing field for all aspirants, while also safeguarding the integrity and neutrality of public institutions.
It further reminded public office holders that the responsibilities of governance must not be compromised by partisan political engagements, adding that all affected officers should take immediate and necessary steps to comply with this directive within the stipulated timeline.
The Senator Monday Okpebholo-led Administration reaffirmed its commitment to upholding constitutionalism, respecting the rule of law, and ensuring that due process is strictly observed in all matters of governance and political participation.
The statement concluded, “By this announcement, all Ministries, Departments and Agencies are directed to give this notice the widest possible circulation.”
