Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has stepped down from his role in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, choosing to pursue his long-held ambition of becoming Oyo State governor—despite reported efforts by the President to keep him in office.
Sources close to the Presidency revealed that Adelabu’s decision followed weeks of behind-the-scenes persuasion, with Tinubu reportedly urging him to reconsider. However, the former minister remained resolute, formally submitting his resignation in a letter dated April 22, 2026, routed through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
The resignation, confirmed by officials in the SGF’s office, comes weeks after a March 31 deadline issued to political appointees seeking elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections. The directive aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and guidelines from the Independent National Electoral Commission.
While several ministers complied within the stipulated timeframe, Adelabu’s exit came 22 days later—sparking speculation. However, insiders insist his resignation was voluntary and remained within the legal window required before party primaries.
According to a senior government source, Tinubu had even been considering Adelabu for a more prominent role as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy following the exit of Wale Edun. The President was said to have consistently defended Adelabu’s performance amid public criticism over persistent power sector challenges, including grid instability and tariff hikes.
Details of a crucial meeting at the Presidential Villa reveal Tinubu directly questioned Adelabu’s chances in the Oyo governorship race. Confident in his response, Adelabu reportedly assured the President of victory—prompting Tinubu to give him his blessing.
“All the President could say was ‘Best of luck,’” the source disclosed.
Adelabu later confirmed that his resignation would take effect on April 30, 2026, allowing for a smooth transition in the Power Ministry.
His media aide emphasized that the move reflects a pattern of conviction-driven decisions, recalling his earlier resignation as Deputy Governor at the Central Bank of Nigeria. He also noted that Adelabu embarked on the new political journey with Tinubu’s full support.
The former minister, who previously contested the Oyo governorship and lost to incumbent Seyi Makinde, has renewed his ambition ahead of the 2027 elections. His return to Ibadan recently drew significant public attention, signaling strong grassroots backing.
However, Adelabu may face stiff competition within the All Progressives Congress (APC), as party stakeholders in the South-West are reportedly rallying around Sharafadeen Alli as a potential consensus candidate.
With political alignments already taking shape, Adelabu’s resignation marks a pivotal moment in the race for Oyo State—setting the stage for what could become one of the most closely watched contests in Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
