Bauchi orders aspiring appointees to step down by Friday
By Wellington Jopelo
The Bauchi State Government has ordered political appointees planning to contest in upcoming party primaries to resign their positions on or before Friday, April 24, 2026.
The directive targets those seeking elective offices, making it clear that holding a government appointment while preparing for elections will not be allowed under the current legal framework.
In a statement issued by the governor’s media aide, Mukhtar Gidado, the decision was described as a necessary step to ensure strict compliance with electoral laws guiding public office holders.
Authorities said the move aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act, which requires appointees to step down before participating in party primaries.
Officials noted that the directive is not optional, stressing that affected individuals must complete their resignation process within the stated timeline.
Beyond stepping down, the government also instructed all affected appointees to properly hand over their duties to designated officers within their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
They are also expected to return all government property in their possession as part of the transition process.
The state government acknowledged the contributions of the appointees, thanking them for their roles in governance and development across Bauchi.
At the same time, it encouraged those leaving office to pursue their political ambitions within the bounds of the law.
Sources within the administration say the move is aimed at maintaining transparency and avoiding conflicts of interest as the political season intensifies.
The directive is expected to trigger a wave of resignations as appointees position themselves ahead of party primaries.
Political observers believe the decision could reshape the state’s political landscape in the coming weeks.
The development also signals early preparations for the 2027 general elections, with parties beginning internal processes to select candidates.
For the Bauchi government, officials say enforcing the rule is key to preserving the integrity of the electoral process.
The deadline now places pressure on appointees to make quick decisions about their political future.
Those who fail to comply risk disqualification from participating in the primaries under the law.