Tinubu Backs Adelabu’s Oyo Governorship Ambition

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is set to resign from his position following reported approval from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sources within the Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) confirmed that Adelabu has intensified consultations across political blocs in Oyo State, signaling a formal entry into the race to succeed incumbent Governor Seyi Makinde, whose tenure is expected to end in 2027.

Adelabu, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was appointed Minister of Power in August 2023, with a mandate to address Nigeria’s long-standing electricity challenges. His tenure has been marked by ongoing reforms in the power sector, including efforts to stabilize the national grid, improve distribution efficiency, and attract private sector investment into electricity generation and transmission.

However, political insiders say the Ibadan-born politician has been under increasing pressure from supporters and political allies in Oyo State to rejoin local politics, having previously contested the governorship election in 2019 under the APC platform.

A senior party source disclosed that Adelabu’s decision followed “extensive consultations with key stakeholders and the Presidency,” adding that his resignation would pave the way for a full-scale grassroots campaign across the state.

“The minister has secured the President’s blessing to pursue his political ambition. What remains is a formal announcement and the necessary administrative process to disengage from the Federal Executive Council,” the source said.

If confirmed, Adelabu’s exit could trigger a minor cabinet reshuffle as the Tinubu administration continues efforts to reposition critical sectors of the economy, particularly the power sector, which remains central to Nigeria’s industrial growth.

Political analysts note that Adelabu’s entry into the Oyo governorship race is likely to reshape the contest within the APC, potentially setting up a competitive primary among aspirants jostling for the party’s ticket. His political structure, combined with his technocratic background and previous electoral experience, is expected to make him a formidable contender.

Meanwhile, reactions have begun to trail the development, with some stakeholders expressing concern over continuity in the power sector, while others argue that his political aspiration reflects the dynamic interplay between governance and electoral politics in Nigeria.

As of press time, there has been no official statement from the Federal Ministry of Power or the Presidency confirming the resignation timeline. However, close aides suggest that a formal declaration could be made in the coming days.

Adelabu’s anticipated move underscores the growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, as key figures within both the APC and opposition parties begin strategic positioning for governorship contests across the country.