Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has directed public office holders with political ambition in the forthcoming 2027 general election to resign.

A statement by the Secretary to State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor Esq dated February 28, 2026, directed all public officers to resign latest March 1st 2025.

The SSG in the statement emphasised that the requirement was intended to promote fairness, transparency, and a level playing field for all aspirants, while also safeguarding the integrity and neutrality of public institutions.

The statement reads: “Public office holders are reminded that the responsibilities of governance must not be compromised by partisan political engagements.

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

Meanwhile, two of the appointees have resigned their positions apparently to contest the 2027 general elections respectively.

The two appointees are the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Hon. Pius Alile and Terry Igiebor, a member of the Edo State Audit Service.

A resignation letter by Alile dated February 27, and addressed to the SSG reads: “I, Hon. Pius Alile, hereby formally tender my resignation as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Edo State Government, effective from February 27th, 2026.

“This decision is made in compliance with the provisions of the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026, which requires holders of executive positions, including political appointees and public office holders, to resign their appointments before contesting in elections.”

He said it was an honour and privilege to serve the government and the good people of Edo State in the capacity.

In his letter dated March 1, 2026, Igiebor said, “This decision is in compliance with the recent circular issued by the Edo State Government directing all intending government appointees who have interest in contesting elections to resign their appointments on or before March 1, 2026. In obedience to this directive and in demonstration of my respect for due process and constituted authority, I hereby relinquish my appointment accordingly.”