Nigeria’s Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu has debunked reports claiming he has stepped down from office, describing the rumours as "false and misleading."
Adelabu's denial comes amid heightened political speculation following a directive from President Bola Tinubu requiring ministers and appointees with ambitions for the 2027 elections to resign by March 2026.
In a WhatsApp message to journalists on Tuesday, Adelabu’s media aide, Bolaji Tunji, branded the reports as fake news and circulated images of a purported resignation letter stamped "fake."
"The news of the minister’s resignation is fake. There is no truth to it," Tunji said, stressing that Adelabu remains focused on his duties in the power sector.
At a press briefing last week, Adelabu acknowledged the timeline for political decisions but insisted his immediate priority is tackling Nigeria’s electricity challenges.
"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," he had said.
However, his response left room for speculation about a possible bid for the Oyo State governorship, as he hinted that his political future remains undecided.
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"Whether I will be here or I will be leaving is a matter of time. I will get back to you," he added.
The Federal Government’s directive, issued through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, was intended to ensure compliance with electoral laws and maintain transparency ahead of the 2027 polls.
"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," the circular had read.
Party insiders suggest Adelabu’s potential candidacy could face stiff competition, with reports indicating growing support within the ruling party for Senator Sharafadeen Alli of Oyo South.
For now, Adelabu insists his focus remains squarely on resolving Nigeria’s power supply crisis, even as speculation over his political ambitions continues to swirl.