Edo 2026: Okpebholo Directs Appointees Seeking Elective Offices to Resign

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has ordered all political appointees, public servants, and government functionaries intending to run for elective positions in the 2026 general elections to resign immediately.

The directive, issued through a statement by Secretary to the State Government Barrister Umar Musa Ikhilor and dated February 28, 2026, requires affected individuals to submit their resignation letters on or before March 1, 2026, before participating in any party primaries or electoral processes.

The order is in strict compliance with the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026, aimed at preventing disqualification by electoral authorities, promoting fairness and transparency, ensuring a level playing field for aspirants, and safeguarding the integrity and neutrality of public institutions.

“All affected officers are therefore advised to take immediate and necessary steps to comply with this directive within the stipulated timeline,” Ikhilor stated.

He emphasized that the Okpebholo-led administration is committed to upholding constitutionalism, the rule of law, and due process in governance and political participation.

Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have been instructed to circulate the notice widely to ensure full compliance.

The move comes as preparations intensify for the 2026 elections, where various positions, including potentially governorship, National Assembly, and state assembly seats will be contested.

The directive seeks to separate partisan ambitions from official duties to avoid any compromise of governance responsibilities.

Aprokorepublic