The Edo State Government has directed all political appointees and public office holders with ambitions to contest in the 2027 general elections to step aside from their positions within a stipulated timeframe.
Governor Monday Okpebholo gave the directive through a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, dated February 28, 2026.
According to the statement, affected officials must resign on or before March 1, 2026, as a condition for participating in party primaries or any other electoral process connected to the 2027 polls.
The policy, the government said, is in line with the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026 and is intended to promote fairness and neutrality in the political process.
The directive has already taken effect, with two senior officials tendering their resignations. They include Hon. Pius Alile, Deputy Chief of Staff at Government House, and Ambassador Terry Igiebor, a member of the Edo State Audit Service Commission.
In his resignation letter, Alile said he stepped down to comply with the law and expressed appreciation to the governor for the opportunity to serve the state. Igiebor, in a separate letter dated March 1, stated that his decision was guided by respect for due process and adherence to government policy.
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The government further warned that public institutions must not be turned into platforms for partisan political activity, stressing that governance responsibilities should remain separate from campaign ambitions.
Observers say the development marks a significant step in enforcing the 2027 election Edo appointees resignation policy, which is aimed at preventing abuse of office and ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.
Political analysts believe the measure could reshape the state’s political landscape as more officials with aspirations are expected to relinquish their posts in line with the 2027 election Edo appointees resignation order.
With the deadline now in force, the Edo State Government insists it will strictly monitor compliance and take appropriate action against any official who violates the directive tied to the 2027 election Edo appointees resignation rule.