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 about his future.
The denial comes against the backdrop of uncertainty following a Federal Government directive requiring political appointees with ambitions for the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions.
In a WhatsApp chat with journalists on Tuesday, Adelabu’s Special Assistant on Media, Bolaji Tunji, debunked the claims, insisting that the minister remains fully committed to his duties in the power sector.
“The news of the minister’s resignation is fake. There is no truth to it,” Tunji said.
To further counter the rumour, the media aide circulated images of the alleged resignation letter, clearly marked “fake news.”
Findings indicate that the speculation gained momentum following recent comments by the minister, which some observers interpreted as signaling a possible political move.
At a press briefing in Abuja last Tuesday, Adelabu avoided giving a definitive answer on whether he would resign, though he acknowledged the timeline for political decisions ahead of the 2027 elections.
“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 stated.
He emphasized that addressing Nigeria’s electricity challenges remains his immediate priority.
“Resolving the power supply challenges is my focus 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,” Adelabu added.
However, in remarks that further fueled speculation, the minister 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 all ministers, heads of agencies, and political appointees seeking elective office in 2027 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 preserving the integrity of the political process.
The circular reads in part: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all political appointees under his administration who intend to contest elective offices in the forthcoming 2027 general elections to resign their appointments on or before March 31, 2026.”
It added that the directive is in line with Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries ahead of the polls.
Adelabu’s position has drawn additional attention amid speculation over a possible bid for the Oyo State governorship, with reports suggesting that party support may be shifting towards Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District.
Punch
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