Oyo 2027: Adelabu Denies Resignation Rumours Amid Political Speculation
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN —- THE Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has dismissed reports claiming he has resigned from office, describing them as false and misleading amid rising political speculation over his future.
The denial comes against the backdrop of uncertainty triggered by a Federal Government directive requiring political appointees with ambitions for the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions.
Reacting via a WhatsApp chat with journalists on Tuesday, Adelabu’s Special Assistant on Media, Bolaji Tunji, refuted the reports, insisting that the minister remains fully engaged in his duties.
“The news of the minister’s resignation is fake. There is no truth to it,” Tunji said.
He further circulated images of a purported resignation letter, clearly marked “fake news,” to counter the claims.
The rumours had gained traction following recent remarks by Adelabu, which some observers interpreted as suggesting a possible political move ahead of the 2027 elections.
At a press briefing in Abuja last Tuesday, the minister stopped short of confirming whether he would resign, although he acknowledged the timeline for political decisions.
“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.
Adelabu reiterated that addressing Nigeria’s electricity challenges remains his immediate focus.
“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,” he added.
However, in remarks that further fuelled speculation, he left his political future open-ended.
“I will not say more than that. Whether I will be here or I will be leaving is a matter of time. I will get back to you,” he said.
The development follows a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mandating ministers, heads of agencies, and other political appointees seeking elective office in 2027 to resign on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive, conveyed through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws and safeguarding the integrity of the political process.
According to the circular, the order aligns with provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Adelabu’s position has attracted additional attention amid speculation that he may contest the Oyo State governorship election.
However, reports suggest that President Tinubu has yet to publicly endorse him, with indications that support within the party may be shifting towards Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District.