The Ondo State Government has released an advisory outlining resignation requirements for political appointees and civil servants intending to contest in the 2027 general elections, directing affected officials to step down in line with constitutional and electoral provisions.
The directive, issued on Monday by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), stated that political appointees seeking elective offices are expected to resign on or before Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
According to the advisory made available to The Hope, the move is aimed at ensuring legal compliance, promoting transparency and preserving the neutrality of the public service ahead of the elections.
The statement noted that career civil servants and other public officers are constitutionally required to resign, withdraw or retire from service at least 30 days before the date of the election, as stipulated in Sections 66(1)(f), 107(1)(f), 137(1)(g) and 182(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Dr. Ajulo explained that the provision applies to permanent and career civil servants, adding that while such individuals may participate in early political activities like purchasing nomination forms and contesting party primaries, their resignation must take effect not later than 30 days before the election date fixed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He warned that failure to comply with the requirement could result in disqualification.
On the status of political appointees—including commissioners, special advisers, senior special assistants and board chairmen—the advisory clarified that they are not covered by the constitutional 30-day resignation rule applicable to civil servants.
However, it emphasized that under the Electoral Act 2026, political appointees must resign before taking part in party primaries or nomination processes.
The government therefore recommended that all affected appointees resign on or before March 31, 2026, to enable them fully participate in political activities and avoid potential conflicts of interest.
It added that early resignation would help ensure adherence to electoral guidelines, prevent abuse of office and promote a level playing field for all aspirants.
The directive also instructed heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure wide dissemination of the advisory and to report compliance to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.
Dr. Ajulo cautioned that engaging in partisan political activities while still in active public service may violate the Public Service Rules and Code of Conduct for Public Officers, warning that defaulters risk administrative sanctions and possible disqualification.
He further noted that the advisory does not introduce new laws but serves as a guide to existing legal obligations. He advised affected officers to seek clarification from the Director of Civil Litigation or the Director of Public Prosecutions at the State Ministry of Justice where necessary.

Read details below:

(a) The Director of Civil Litigation; or
(b) The Director of Public Prosecutions,
Office of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ondo State.

Please be guided accordingly and accept the assurances of my highest regards.

Signed:

Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, OON, SAN
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice
Ondo State