- The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has declined to confirm whether he will contest the Oyo State governorship election despite mounting speculation
- Adelabu stressed that his current focus is on his role as Minister of Power, noting that he is committed to addressing Nigeria’s electricity challenges
- Meanwhile, he subtly stated that service can be rendered at both national and subnational levels
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has declined to clarify his political intentions amid growing speculation about his possible bid for the Oyo State governorship.
Speaking during a question-and-answer session at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, March 24, Adelabu said he remains focused on his current responsibilities, even as uncertainty surrounds his next move.
“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,” he said.
The minister emphasised that addressing Nigeria’s electricity challenges remains his top priority, while acknowledging the limited timeframe for making a decision on the 2027 governorship race.
“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.
Adelabu, however, stopped short of confirming whether he would resign to pursue the governorship, leaving room for continued speculation.
“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.”
His comments come shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed all political appointees seeking elective office in the 2027 general elections to resign on or before March 31, 2026.
The directive, issued through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, is aimed at ensuring compliance with electoral regulations and maintaining the integrity of the political process ahead of the elections.
The statement read, “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 directive is pursuant to the provisions of Section 88(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, as well as the timetable issued by the INEC for party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
Meanwhile, political developments within the ruling party have added another layer of intrigue, with reports suggesting that Tinubu has yet to publicly endorse Adelabu’s potential candidacy.
Instead, indications point to possible backing for Sharafadeen Alli, the senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, further intensifying uncertainty over the party’s direction in Oyo State.