Gov Otu Orders Commissioners, Aides To Resign Their Positions

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 their positions on or before March 26, 2026.

Naija News reports that the directive was issued during the State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, as part of efforts to ensure focus, discipline, and integrity in governance.

Announcing the decision, the governor made it clear that no appointee with political ambitions for 2027 would be allowed to remain in office beyond the stipulated deadline.

“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.

Otu emphasised that public office must not be used as a platform for personal political pursuits, describing governance as a responsibility that demands full commitment.

“Public office is a sacred trust, and it must never be conflated with personal political ambition,” he added.

He warned that his administration would not tolerate distractions that could undermine effective service delivery.

“Our people deserve undivided attention, and this administration will not compromise on that responsibility,” the governor said.

The governor stressed that the administration’s mandate at this stage is to deliver on its promises without interference from early political activities.

“At this critical time, our mandate is to serve diligently, deliver on our promises, and ensure that governance remains free from distractions of premature political activity,” he said.

He urged all appointees to remain committed to their responsibilities and prioritise the welfare of the people.

“We must stay resolute in our duty to the people who have entrusted us with leadership,” he stated.

Otu clarified that the directive was not meant to punish political appointees but to promote 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,” he said.

Reaffirming his administration’s focus, the governor said efforts would continue in key sectors aimed at boosting 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 added.

The governor directed all affected officials to comply strictly with the order, warning that the directive must be taken seriously.

“I expect full compliance with this directive,” he stated.

He concluded by urging leaders to place the state’s interest above personal ambition.

“Together, let us uphold accountability, discipline, and selfless service. The progress of our dear state must always come before personal ambition,” Otu said.

Naija News reports that the development comes barely 24 hours after Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, issued a similar directive, asking all political appointees with interest in elective positions in 2027 to resign on or before March 31, 2026.