APC Primaries: Resign Now, Okpebholo Tells Commissioners, Others
Gov Okpebholo
By Reporter
The Edo State Govemment has served a quit notice to members of the State Executive Council and all political appointees to resign their positions effective March 1, 2026 before they can contest for the All Progressives Congress (APC) tickets to participate in the forthcoming elections.
The directive according to a notice signed by the Secretary to Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhjlor, is in fulfillment of the 2026 Electoral Law as amended and to promote fairness, transparency, and ensure a level playing field for all aspirants. Government also added that it will safeguard the integrity and neutrality of public institutions.
The statement reads: “The Edo State Govemment hereby notifies all Public Servants, Political Appointees, and Government functionaries serving in any capacity within the Edo State Public Service that any officer who intends to contest for any elective position in the forthcoming electoral cycle must tender his or her resignation on or before 1st March, 2026, prior to participating in any party primaries or electoral process.
“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.
“Govemment 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.
“Public office holders are reminded that the responsibilities of govemance 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.
“The Senator Monday Okpebholo-led Administration remains firmly committed to upholding constitutionalism, respecting the rule of law, and ensuring that due process is strictly observed in all matters of governance and political participation.
“By this announcement, all Ministries, Departments and Agencies are directed to give this notice the widest possible circulation.”
It will be recalled that several members of Governor Monday Okpebholo”s cabinet have indicated their interest to contest for various elective offices during the electioneering windows, a situation thatbis capable of polarizing the smooth running of government.
Notable amongst the aspirants are the Commissioner of Education, Mr. Paddy Iyamu; Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Pius Alile; a member of EDSOGPADEC board, Mr. Felix Osaze Igbinovia and several others.
