Power Minister resigns to contest Oyo governorship

Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu has resigned his cabinet position to pursue the governorship of Oyo State, with his exit from office taking effect on April 30, 2026.

In a resignation letter dated April 22 and addressed to President Bola Tinubu through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Adelabu said he was stepping down to allow sufficient time for a smooth and orderly handover of responsibilities.

“It has been a rare honour to contribute to national development under your leadership and to play a role in advancing reforms in the power sector — one of the most critical foundations of Nigeria’s industrial growth and economic transformation,” he wrote.

Adelabu cited the provisions of the Amended Electoral Act 2026, which precludes political office holders from contesting elections, as a key basis for his resignation. He said his governorship ambition dates back to 2016 during his time as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and had ultimately led to his voluntary resignation from the CBN in 2018 to pursue the same goal.

“My decision to step down is informed by my intention to focus fully on my gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State,” he said.

Adelabu thanked the President for the privilege of serving and described his appointment as a rare opportunity to contribute to national development.

His resignation marks a significant political development ahead of the next electoral cycle, with Adelabu now expected to formally enter the Oyo State governorship race.