Edo State Government Directs Public Office Holders Seeking Elective Positions To Resign Before March 1, 2026

February 28, 2026

The Edo State Government has issued a formal directive requiring all public servants, political appointees, and government functionaries intending to contest in the forthcoming electoral cycle to tender their resignation on or before March 1, 2026.

The announcement, released on February 28, 2026, mandates that any officer serving in any capacity within the Edo State Public Service must resign prior to participating in party primaries or any stage of the electoral process. The directive is anchored on the provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026, in strict compliance with statutory requirements governing political participation by public office holders.

According to the statement, the measure is designed to prevent potential disqualification of aspirants by relevant electoral authorities and to ensure that all candidates operate within the framework of the law. Government emphasized that the directive promotes fairness, transparency, and a level playing field for all aspirants, while safeguarding the neutrality and integrity of public institutions.

The administration further underscored that the responsibilities of governance must not be compromised by partisan political activities. It reiterated that public office holders are expected to separate official duties from political ambitions in order to maintain institutional credibility and public trust.

The directive was issued under the authority of the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., who called on all affected officers to take immediate and necessary steps to comply within the stipulated timeline. Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have also been instructed to give the announcement the widest possible circulation.

The government reaffirmed that the administration led by Monday Okpebholo remains committed to constitutionalism, the rule of law, and strict adherence to due process in matters relating to governance and political participation.

Urbanscoopnews note that the move aligns with national electoral guidelines and reflects broader efforts to strengthen democratic accountability ahead of the forthcoming elections.