Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has directed all political appointees and state council members intending to contest the 2027 general elections to vacate their positions by March 31, 2026. The order, issued during the 64th State Executive Council meeting in Gusau on Monday, aims to ensure strict adherence to Nigeria’s electoral regulations ahead of the polls.
According to a statement from the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the directive aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act and the preliminary timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the 2027 elections. Governor Lawal, in his opening remarks at the council meeting, underscored the legal requirement for public office holders to resign before seeking elective positions. “The governor directed that all council members vying for political offices should resign on or before the 31st of March 2026,” the statement noted.
To enforce compliance, the governor has instructed the Secretary to the State Government to circulate a formal circular to all political appointees detailing the deadline. Similarly, the Head of Service has been directed to notify civil servants planning to run for office of the same requirement. This step is designed to preempt potential legal conflicts, as Nigerian law prohibits public office holders from retaining their posts while actively campaigning for other elective roles.
The move reflects a proactive approach by the Zamfara State government to uphold electoral integrity. Governor Lawal reiterated that the directive would not disrupt the administration’s commitment to governance and ongoing developmental projects across the state.
The 2027 general elections, for which INEC has issued a preliminary timetable, are anticipated to intensify political activity nationwide. Several incumbent officials have already signalled interest in various positions, making compliance with resignation rules a critical issue for state governments. Zamfara’s action mirrors similar directives previously issued in other states to align with the Electoral Act’s stipulations.
By setting a clear deadline well in advance, the Lawal administration aims to provide a structured window for transition, ensuring that public service delivery remains uninterrupted while aspirants prepare for their campaigns. The decision also highlights the state’s effort to cooperate with INEC’s schedule and national electoral guidelines, reinforcing a uniform standard for political participation by public servants.
