Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has dissolved the State Executive Council with immediate effect, in a move linked to preparations for upcoming general elections.
The decision, announced in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani, is intended to allow members of the cabinet who may wish to seek elective positions to do so without holding executive office.
“The decision is to provide an enabling environment for any member of the council who may wish to contest elective positions in the forthcoming general elections,” the statement said.
Following the dissolution, all commissioners have been directed to transfer the responsibilities of their ministries to the respective permanent secretaries. The handover process is to be completed on or before April 3, 2026.
“The governor has therefore directed all Commissioners to hand over the affairs of their respective ministries to the permanent secretaries on or before Friday, April 3, 2026,” the statement added.
Cabinet dissolutions ahead of elections are not uncommon in Nigeria, particularly when political office holders intend to contest new positions. Such steps are often taken to ensure compliance with electoral guidelines and to prevent conflicts between official duties and campaign activities.
Zulum, who has served as governor since 2019, has overseen governance in Borno State during a period marked by ongoing security challenges in the North-East, alongside efforts at reconstruction and resettlement of communities affected by insurgency.
In the statement, the governor also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing commissioners during their time in office.
“Governor Zulum expressed his profound appreciation to the outgoing Commissioners for their dedication, commitment, and invaluable contributions to the development and service of the people of Borno State,” it said.
The dissolution effectively brings an end to the current cabinet’s tenure, pending the possible reconstitution of a new executive council or the transition of members into political contests.
While the statement did not indicate whether some commissioners may be reappointed, it underscores the beginning of political realignments within the state as preparations for the next general elections gather momentum.
The development is expected to reshape the composition of Borno’s political landscape in the coming months, particularly if several former cabinet members declare interest in elective positions.
