Power Minister Adelabu Set to Resign, Eyes Oyo Governorship Race

Power Minister Adelabu Set to Resign, Eyes Oyo Governorship Race

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is expected to step down from his position in the coming days as he prepares to contest the governorship election in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 general polls.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Tunji Bolaji, who said the minister had already informed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of his intention to resign.

According to the statement, the President has given his approval for Adelabu to pursue his political ambition.

“In view of this development, Chief Adebayo Adelabu is expected to resign his position as Minister of Power in the coming days,” Bolaji said.

He noted that the timing of the planned resignation was designed to allow the minister conclude critical aspects of ongoing reforms in the power sector before leaving office.

The statement highlighted efforts to stabilise electricity supply, particularly in the face of recent generation challenges linked to gas supply shortages, pipeline repairs and outstanding payments to gas suppliers.

It also stated that Adelabu used his meeting with the President to present key policy frameworks, including the National Integrated Electricity Policy and its Strategic Implementation Plan, alongside a medium-to-long-term resource plan aimed at ensuring continuity in the sector.

The Presidency, according to the statement, commended the minister for his performance and the groundwork laid for reforms.

“President Tinubu commended the Minister for his dedication and the progress recorded, particularly in laying a strong policy foundation for the transformation of the power sector,” the statement said, adding that the President granted his consent for the governorship bid.

Adelabu, who was appointed minister in August 2023, expressed appreciation for the President’s support and reaffirmed his commitment to national development.

Before his appointment, he served as a deputy governor at the Central Bank of Nigeria.

His expected resignation signals the start of early political positioning ahead of the 2027 elections in Oyo State.