Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu has dismissed reports claiming he has resigned from office, describing the claims as false and misleading amid growing political speculation about his future ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The minister’s media aide, Bolaji Tunji, refuted the reports in a WhatsApp chat with journalists on Tuesday, insisting that Adelabu remains focused on his duties in the power sector.
“The news of the minister’s resignation is fake. There is no truth to it,” Tunji said.
To reinforce the denial, the media aide also circulated images of the purported resignation letter circulating online, clearly stamped “fake news.”
The rumours surfaced amid heightened political activity following a directive by the Federal Government requiring political appointees who intend to contest elective positions in the 2027 general elections to resign from office.
The directive, issued through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), mandates all ministers, heads of agencies and other political appointees seeking elective office to step down on or before March 31, 2026.
According to the circular, the directive is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral laws and maintaining the integrity of the political process.
“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,” the statement read.
The directive is based on Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for party primaries ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speculation about Adelabu’s resignation gained momentum following comments he made during a press briefing in Abuja last week, where he declined to give a definitive answer about his political plans.
“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,” Adelabu said.
He reiterated that addressing Nigeria’s persistent electricity challenges remains his immediate priority.
“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, the minister’s remarks about his political future further fuelled speculation when he suggested that his next move would become clear in due course.
“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.
Adelabu’s situation has attracted particular attention amid reports linking him with a possible governorship bid in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, political observers note that Tinubu has yet to publicly endorse him, with indications that support within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) may be shifting towards Senator Sharafadeen Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District.