Otu Orders Political Appointees To Resign Ahead Of 2027 Elections

CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – The Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, has directed all political appointees seeking elective positions in 2027 to resign before March 26, 2026.

The directive affects members of the State Executive Council and other appointed officials across ministries, departments, and agencies within the state government.

The Governor issued the order during a State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday in Calabar, the state capital.

His Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Linus Obogo, confirmed the development in an official statement released to journalists.

Officials said the directive aims to preserve governance efficiency and prevent political distractions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Governor Otu emphasized that appointees must separate public responsibilities from personal political ambitions to maintain ethical standards in governance.

Governor Cites Ethical Governance, Public Trust

“Any member of this Council who harbours political ambitions for the 2027 elections must, in the interest of propriety and focus, tender resignation,” Otu declared.

He insisted that public office demands full commitment and must not be used as a platform for advancing individual political interests.

“Public office is a sacred trust, and it must not be conflated with personal political pursuits,” the governor stated during deliberations.

He added that the administration owes citizens undivided attention, stressing that governance must remain people-centered and free from undue political influence.

Sources within the Executive Council confirmed that the directive followed extensive discussions on maintaining discipline within government operations.

A senior government official, who attended the meeting, said the governor stressed accountability and institutional integrity as guiding principles for the decision.

Preventing Distractions Ahead of Election Cycle

Governor Otu stated that early political activities often disrupt governance and weaken service delivery across sectors if not properly managed.

“Our mandate at this critical time is to serve diligently and ensure governance is not encumbered by premature political engagements,” he said.

He explained that the policy would help streamline decision-making processes and sustain focus on ongoing developmental projects across the state.

Analysts note that election cycles in Nigeria often trigger early politicking, which can affect policy implementation and administrative efficiency.

The governor’s directive seeks to address this challenge by compelling aspirants to disengage from official duties before pursuing political ambitions.

Policy observers describe the move as a preventive measure designed to safeguard institutional performance during politically sensitive periods.

Directive Aligns with Democratic Best Practices

Governor Otu described the decision as consistent with democratic norms and global governance standards practiced in established political systems.

“This directive is not punitive; it is principled and intended to guarantee a level playing field for all aspirants,” he stated.

He emphasized that fairness in political participation requires that no aspirant should enjoy undue advantage by remaining in office.

Legal experts argue that requiring resignation before contesting elections promotes transparency and reduces abuse of incumbency advantages.

A constitutional lawyer in Calabar noted that the directive reflects situational ethics aimed at balancing governance stability with democratic participation.

He added that the move could strengthen public confidence in government neutrality during the electoral process.

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Reactions Trail Government Decision

Political stakeholders in Cross River State have expressed mixed reactions to the governor’s directive on appointees with 2027 ambitions.

Some party members welcomed the decision, describing it as necessary to ensure fairness and discipline within the ruling political structure.

Others, however, raised concerns about timing, suggesting that early resignations may affect continuity in certain government programmes.

A party official who spoke on condition of anonymity said the directive would test loyalty and commitment among political appointees.

Civil society groups commended the governor for prioritizing governance ethics over political convenience, urging strict implementation of the directive.

They also called for transparent monitoring to ensure compliance across all levels of government appointments.

Administration Reaffirms Development Agenda

Governor Otu reiterated that his administration remains committed to economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved service delivery across the state.

He said the government will continue pursuing policies that promote economic diversification and strengthen partnerships with development stakeholders.

“Our focus remains on building a resilient and prosperous Cross River State,” the governor affirmed during the council session.

He noted that internally generated revenue initiatives would be intensified to reduce dependence on federal allocations.

Officials disclosed that several ongoing projects in health, education, and infrastructure remain priorities for the administration.

They added that governance continuity would not be compromised despite expected resignations of politically ambitious appointees.

Call for Compliance and Public Interest

Governor Otu urged affected appointees to comply fully with the directive and prioritize the collective interest of the state above personal ambitions.

He emphasized that leadership requires sacrifice, discipline, and adherence to ethical standards that promote public trust in governance.

“Appointees must place public interest above personal ambition, as the progress of Cross River State must remain paramount,” he concluded.

The government warned that failure to comply with the directive may attract administrative consequences in line with established regulations.

Observers believe the policy could reshape political dynamics in the state ahead of the 2027 elections.

They also note that its implementation will serve as a test of institutional discipline within the Cross River State government.

Residents and stakeholders continue to monitor developments as the March 26 deadline approaches for affected political appointees.