Update: Power Minister Adelabu Denies Resignation Rumours

Update: Power Minister Adelabu Denies Resignation Rumours

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has denied reports that he has resigned from office, describing the claims as false and misleading.

The denial comes against the backdrop of growing political speculation over his next move ahead of the 2027 general elections and a Federal Government directive requiring political appointees with electoral ambitions to step down.

In a response to journalists on Tuesday, Adelabu’s Special Assistant on Media, Bolaji Tunji, said the reports making the rounds were untrue, insisting that the minister remains focused on his duties.

“The news of the minister’s resignation is fake. There is no truth to it,” Tunji said, while also circulating copies of the purported resignation letter marked “fake news.”

The rumours had gained traction following recent comments by the minister, which many interpreted as a signal of possible political ambition, particularly in Oyo State.

At a recent press briefing in Abuja, Adelabu avoided giving a definite answer on whether he would resign, but emphasised that his immediate focus remains on addressing challenges in the power sector.

“What matters to me most now is this job that I am doing as the Honourable Minister of Power. I am excelling on the job, and that is my priority for now, tackling foreseen, known and unforeseen challenges in the power sector,” he said.

He added, “Resolving the power supply challenges is my priority for now. We have between now and March 31, if I am interested, in the gubernatorial contest in Oyo State. It is all about service, either at the national level or at the subnational level.”

However, the minister left the door open on his political future, saying, “Whether I will be here or I will be leaving is a matter of time.”

The development comes as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed all political appointees seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026.

The directive, issued through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws and maintaining the integrity of the political process.

Adelabu’s position has attracted attention amid reports linking him to the Oyo State governorship race, although there are indications that other contenders, including Sharafadeen Alli, are also in contention within the ruling party.

For now, the minister insists he remains in office, even as political calculations ahead of 2027 continue to shape conversations within the government and across party lines.