BREAKING: Cross River Governor Otu Orders Political Appointees Eyeing 2027 Elections To Resign By March 26
He stressed that public office must not be mixed with personal political ambitions, noting that governance should remain the top priority.
The Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, has directed all members of the State Executive Council and political appointees intending to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign from their positions on or before March 26, 2026.
The directive, issued during the State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, was aimed at ensuring focus, discipline, and integrity in governance.
“As Governor of Cross River State, I have directed that any member of the State Executive Council, as well as all political appointees who intend to contest in the 2027 general elections, must resign from office on or before March 26, 2026,” Otu said.
He stressed that public office must not be mixed with personal political ambitions, noting that governance should remain the top priority.
“Public office is a sacred trust, and it must never be conflated with personal political ambition,” he added.
The governor further stated that the administration would not allow political distractions to hinder service delivery, insisting that the people of the state deserve full attention from their leaders.
“Our people deserve undivided attention, & this administration will not compromise on that responsibility,” he said.
“At this critical time, our mandate is to serve diligently, deliver on our promises, & ensure that governance remains free from distractions of premature political activity.”
Otu emphasised the need for commitment to duty, urging appointees to remain resolute in serving the people who entrusted them with leadership.
“We must stay resolute in our duty to the people who have entrusted us with leadership,” he said.
He clarified that the directive was not intended to punish anyone but was based on principles aimed at promoting fairness and institutional integrity.
“This decision is not punitive; it is principled. It aligns with global best practices and is designed to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants, while safeguarding the integrity of government institutions,” the governor said.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to development, Otu noted that efforts would continue in key areas of economic growth and governance.
“We remain fully committed to our development agenda, driving economic diversification, strengthening strategic partnerships, and enhancing internally generated revenue. Our focus is steady in building a resilient and prosperous Cross River State,” he said.
The governor also called for strict adherence to the directive.
“I expect full compliance with this directive,” he stated.
He concluded by urging officials to prioritise the state’s progress above personal ambitions.
“Together, let us uphold accountability, discipline, and selfless service. The progress of our dear state must always come before personal ambition.”
This directive comes as Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu gave a similar order on Tuesday, urging that anyone with interest in elective position in 2027 should resign by March 31.
