Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has issued a directive requiring all political appointees in his administration who intend to contest elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign from their posts by March 30, 2026.
The governor announced this decision during a meeting with members of his cabinet at the Government House in Makurdi, the state capital. Furthermore, he emphasized that the deadline applies to all appointees regardless of their position or length of service in the administration.
Governor Cites Need for Fairness
Alia explained that the directive aims to ensure fairness and maintain administrative integrity. “Those who wish to pursue elective offices must step aside to allow for proper governance and to create a level playing field for all aspirants,” he stated. Additionally, he noted that continued service while campaigning would create conflicts of interest.
The governor stressed that his administration remained committed to delivering democratic dividends to the people of Benue State. Consequently, he argued that appointees distracted by political ambitions could not effectively discharge their duties.
Directive Covers All Political Appointees
The March 30 deadline affects commissioners, special advisers, senior special assistants, and other political appointees currently serving in various capacities. Moreover, Alia warned that failure to comply with the directive would result in automatic dismissal from office.
As reported by ALO360, the governor’s spokesperson confirmed that the directive took immediate effect. The spokesperson added that the administration would not grant any extensions beyond the stipulated date.
