Abba Yusuf has ordered all political appointees in Kano State who intend to contest in the 2026 general elections to resign their positions by March 31, 2026, in compliance with the Electoral Act.
The directive was issued via a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Tofa, and conveyed through an official circular signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim. The circular cites Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which regulates participation of public office holders in partisan politics.
The measure aims to promote neutrality, accountability, and integrity in the public service while ensuring a level playing field for all electoral aspirants. The circular instructs all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to publicise the directive widely and enforce compliance.
The directive aligns with similar measures recently implemented at both federal and state levels. For instance, President Bola Tinubu has required political appointees seeking elective positions in the 2027 elections to resign by the same date.
Comparable requirements have also been enforced in states like Niger, reflecting efforts to prevent abuse of office, reduce incumbency advantage, and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.