Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has directed all public servants, political appointees and government functionaries intending to contest elective positions in the forthcoming electoral cycle to resign on or before March 1, 2026.

In a Government Special Announcement dated February 28, 2026, the administration of Okpebholo said the directive was issued in strict compliance with the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026.

The statement, signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, warned that any officer who plans to participate in party primaries or any electoral process must first vacate his or her position within the stipulated timeline.

It noted that failure to comply could expose aspirants to the risk of disqualification by relevant electoral authorities.

“This directive is issued in strict compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026, and is aimed at ensuring that all aspiring candidates do not run the risk of disqualification by the relevant electoral authorities,” the statement read.

The government explained that the measure was designed to promote fairness, transparency and a level playing field for all aspirants.

It added that the neutrality and integrity of public institutions must be safeguarded, stressing that governance responsibilities should not be compromised by partisan political engagements.

“Government emphasizes that this requirement is intended to promote fairness, transparency, and a level playing field for all aspirants, while also safeguarding the integrity and neutrality of public institutions,” it stated.

The Edo Governor directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to give the announcement the widest possible circulation to ensure full compliance.