Adelabu Quits Tinubu’s Cabinet, Declares for Oyo Governorship Race

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has resigned from the Federal Executive Council to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State ahead of the next electoral cycle.

In a resignation letter dated April 22, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu said his exit will take effect from April 30, 2026, to ensure a seamless transition in the ministry.

The letter, which was transmitted through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, conveyed the minister’s appreciation to the President for the opportunity to serve.

“I write with a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude to formally tender my resignation as Honourable Minister of Power of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he stated, noting that the delayed effective date was to allow for an orderly handover.

Adelabu described his appointment as a privilege, adding that he was grateful for the confidence reposed in him to contribute to reforms in the nation’s power sector.

According to him, his decision to step down is driven by his intention to fully concentrate on his gubernatorial aspiration in Oyo State.

He explained that the move aligns with provisions of the amended Electoral Act 2026, which bars political office holders from contesting elections while still in office.

Adelabu further recalled that his governorship ambition dates back to 2016 during his tenure as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, a position he resigned from in 2018 to pursue the same goal.

His resignation is seen as a significant political development in Oyo State, where the race for the governorship seat is gradually gaining momentum ahead of the forthcoming elections.