A wave of disquiet has trailed a fresh directive by the Edo State Government mandating all public servants and political appointees intending to contest in the forthcoming elections to resign from service before participating in party primaries.
The government, under the leadership of Monday Okpebholo, announced that affected officials must tender their resignation on or before March 1, 2026, in line with provisions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026.
The directive, contained in a special government announcement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, warned that failure to comply could lead to disqualification by electoral authorities.
According to the government, the measure is aimed at ensuring fairness, transparency and a level playing field for all aspirants, while also preserving the neutrality of public institutions.
“The responsibilities of governance must not be compromised by partisan political engagements,” the statement read.
However, further details obtained by this online newspaper indicate that the announcement has unsettled sections of the public service, with many affected officials expressing concern over the timing and implications of the directive.
Some insiders argue that the policy may force potential aspirants to make difficult career decisions prematurely, particularly in an increasingly fluid political environment.
Others, however, see the move as a necessary step to enforce compliance with electoral laws and prevent undue advantage by incumbents leveraging state resources for political gain.
Political analysts note that the directive aligns with legal provisions requiring public officers to disengage from government service before seeking elective positions, a safeguard designed to strengthen electoral integrity.
All Ministries, Departments and Agencies have been instructed to circulate the directive widely, as the government insists on strict adherence.
While the debate continues, the policy has effectively drawn a clear line for political ambition within the Edo public service — forcing would-be candidates to choose between holding office and pursuing electoral aspirations.
