Adelabu Resigns as Power Minister to Pursue Oyo Governorship Ambition

Adebayo Adelabu, Nigeria’s Minister of Power, has formally resigned his position in the Federal Government to focus on his governorship ambition in Oyo State, marking a significant political shift ahead of the next electoral cycle.

In a resignation letter dated April 22, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu announced that his exit would take effect from April 30, 2026, allowing time for a smooth and orderly transition. The letter was submitted through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Adelabu described his decision as one made with “a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude,” thanking the President for the opportunity to serve in a key national role. He noted that his tenure allowed him to contribute to reforms in Nigeria’s power sector, which he described as critical to the country’s industrial growth and economic transformation.

“I remain sincerely grateful for the privilege and confidence you reposed in me,” Adelabu wrote, adding that it had been “a rare honour” to serve under the current administration.

The former minister explained that his resignation was driven by his intention to fully commit to his long-standing ambition of becoming governor of Oyo State. He cited provisions of the amended Electoral Act 2026, which bar political office holders from contesting elections while in office, as a key factor in his decision.

Adelabu also reflected on his earlier attempt at the governorship, noting that his aspiration dates back to 2016 during his time as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. He had resigned from the apex bank in 2018 to pursue the same goal.

His departure from the cabinet is expected to reshape political dynamics in Oyo State, where he is widely anticipated to be a major contender in the upcoming governorship election.