BENIN CITY, Nigeria — Monday Okpebholo has directed all public servants, political appointees and government functionaries in Edo State who intend to contest elective offices in the upcoming electoral cycle to resign their positions on or before March 1, 2026, the state government announced Friday, Feb. 28, 2026. The directive, issued in compliance with the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026, aims to prevent potential disqualification of aspirants and ensure fairness in the electoral process.

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In a Government Special Announcement dated Feb. 28, the administration said the order was issued in strict adherence to the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026.

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

“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 said the measure was designed to promote fairness, transparency and a level playing field for all aspirants, while safeguarding the neutrality and integrity of public institutions.

“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 governor directed all ministries, departments and agencies to give the announcement wide circulation to ensure full compliance.