The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, appears to have dropped his ambition to contest the Oyo State governorship election scheduled for next year. The development comes after the minister did not resign from his cabinet position by the March 30, 2026 deadline set by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for those intending to run for elective offices.
Over the past year, Adelabu had been actively consulting with political stakeholders in Oyo State regarding his intention to run for the governorship under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His discussions were widely reported to have created anticipation among party members and political watchers in the state.
However, speculation about his plans intensified recently after a letter purportedly showing his resignation from the cabinet circulated on social media. Adelabu’s media aide, Mr. Bolaji Tunji, immediately dismissed the letter, describing it as “fake news.”
“The minister remains in office and continues to carry out his duties in line with the president’s mandate,” Tunji said. He also urged the public to disregard the circulated document, emphasizing that no formal resignation had been submitted to the presidency.
In a brief interaction with journalists in Abuja last week, Adelabu declined to directly comment on his governorship plans. He reiterated that his focus remains on the responsibilities of his ministry.
“I am fully focused on my job as the Minister of Power,” Adelabu said. “That is where my priority lies at the moment.”
Observers note that the minister’s statement signals a clear message to both his political supporters and opponents: for now, he will remain in the federal cabinet and will not be part of the next Oyo State gubernatorial race.
Political analysts have suggested that missing the presidential resignation deadline effectively rules out Adelabu from contesting next year’s governorship election. The deadline was widely publicized and enforced to ensure that federal appointees who intend to run for office can step down in time to participate in party primaries and electoral preparations.
The Oyo State governorship election, scheduled for 2027, is shaping up to be a competitive contest. The APC, which currently holds power in the state, is expected to field a strong candidate, and party members have been closely watching potential aspirants. Adelabu had been considered a leading contender due to his national profile as a federal minister and his previous experience in banking and public administration.
Political stakeholders in Oyo State have expressed mixed reactions to the news. Some believe his decision to remain in the federal cabinet strengthens his position as a key player in national politics, while others think it may create a vacuum in the APC’s list of strong gubernatorial aspirants in the state.
The PDP and other opposition parties in Oyo State are reportedly watching the situation closely, as the absence of a high-profile APC contender could reshape the dynamics of the race. Political observers note that new aspirants are likely to emerge in the coming months as parties prepare for the primary elections.
The circulation of the fake resignation letter highlights the growing role of social media in shaping public perception of political developments in Nigeria. Experts warn that unverified documents and reports can mislead voters and create unnecessary confusion.
Mr. Tunji, Adelabu’s media aide, stressed the importance of relying on official statements and confirmed sources. “We urge journalists, party members, and the general public to disregard false information circulating online,” he said.
The “fake news” incident also underscores the sensitivity surrounding cabinet resignations and political ambitions in Nigeria. Ministers who plan to contest for elective positions must navigate strict deadlines and legal requirements, and any misinformation can potentially damage reputations or influence voter expectations.
Adelabu’s decision to remain in the cabinet allows him to continue implementing key policies and projects within the Power Ministry. Under his leadership, the ministry has been focusing on improving electricity supply, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and supporting initiatives aimed at boosting Nigeria’s power sector.
By staying in office, Adelabu can also maintain his visibility at the national level, potentially strengthening his influence within the APC and in broader federal politics. Analysts suggest that remaining in the cabinet could offer long-term political advantages, even if the governorship ambition is postponed or abandoned.
While Adelabu’s governorship plans appear to be on hold, political watchers say the situation in Oyo State remains fluid. Other aspirants within the APC are likely to seize the opportunity to position themselves ahead of party primaries.
For now, the focus is on Adelabu’s work in the Power Ministry and his ongoing commitment to national service. His media team has assured the public that he will continue to serve in the cabinet and carry out his responsibilities until further notice.
The minister’s case serves as a reminder of the importance of verified information in politics, the significance of adherence to election rules, and the impact of deadlines on the aspirations of public officials seeking elective office.