The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has denied reports claiming he has resigned from office, describing the speculation as false and misleading.
The denial comes amid uncertainty following a Federal Government directive requiring political appointees with ambitions for the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions.
Reacting in a WhatsApp chat with journalists on Tuesday, Adelabu’s Special Assistant on Media, Bolaji Tunji, dismissed the reports as fake news, insisting that the minister remains focused on his duties.
“The news of the minister’s resignation is fake. There is no truth to it,” Tunji said.
He also shared images of the purported resignation letter, which was clearly marked “fake news.”
Kano Times gathered that the rumours gained traction following recent comments by Adelabu, which many interpreted as suggesting a possible political move.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja last Tuesday, the minister did not confirm whether he would resign, but acknowledged the timeline for political decisions ahead of the 2027 elections.
“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.
He added that addressing Nigeria’s electricity challenges remains his immediate priority.
“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,” Adelabu stated.
However, in remarks that further fuelled speculation, the minister hinted that his political future remains undecided.
“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,” he added.
The development follows a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mandating ministers, heads of agencies and other political appointees seeking elective offices in 2027 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 laws and safeguarding the integrity of the political process.
The circular reads in part: “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 Independent National Electoral Commission for party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
