Political maneuvering has reportedly begun within Nigeria’s power sector and political circles as speculation grows that the current Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, may soon vacate his position to pursue the governorship of Oyo State in the 2027 elections.
Sources familiar with developments say several influential figures are already positioning themselves for the ministerial seat amid expectations that Adelabu could step down from the cabinet in the coming weeks.
Adelabu is widely believed to be preparing to contest the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the next election cycle in Oyo State.
INEC Timetable Fuels Speculation
The growing speculation surrounding Adelabu’s potential resignation is largely linked to the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for political party primaries.
According to the electoral schedule, political parties are expected to conduct their primaries and resolve internal disputes between April 23 and May 30, 2026. Observers believe this timeline may compel Adelabu to step aside from his ministerial responsibilities if he formally declares his intention to contest the election.
Earlier Signals of Political Ambition
Adelabu had earlier hinted that his tenure as Minister of Power might not last for the full duration of the administration.
During a meeting with stakeholders in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry held in Lagos late last year, the minister suggested that he hoped to accomplish key milestones before leaving office.
According to individuals close to him, the statement reflected his long-standing interest in returning to Oyo State politics.
In October 2025, a video circulated online showing Adelabu openly declaring his intention to run for the governorship of Oyo State.
In the recording, he referenced his previous attempts to become governor, having contested the office in 2019 and again in 2023.
Both elections were won by the incumbent governor, Seyi Makinde.
“I have paid my dues in the political process,” Adelabu said in the video. “I contested against Seyi Makinde in 2019 and again in 2023 when he was already the sitting governor. But in 2027, it is our turn. It is Adelabu’s turn, and whatever belongs to Adelabu belongs to all of us.”
No Directive Yet From Tinubu
Despite growing speculation about his potential resignation, Adelabu’s media aide, Bolaji Tunji, said there has been no official instruction from Bola Ahmed Tinubu requiring ministers with political ambitions to step down from their positions.
Speaking on the matter, Tunji said the situation remains uncertain.
“We need to wait for further developments. As far as I know, the President has not directed cabinet members with political aspirations to resign,” he said.
Stakeholders Call for Technocrat
Meanwhile, developments around Adelabu’s possible departure have triggered debate among stakeholders in the electricity sector about the kind of leadership needed for the ministry.
Several experts have urged the presidency to appoint a technocrat with deep knowledge of the power industry if the position eventually becomes vacant.
Energy analyst Bode Fadipe said the next minister should be someone with strong professional expertise rather than purely political credentials.
“My preference would be a technocrat who understands the complexities of the power sector and whose focus will be on national development rather than personal ambition,” he said.
The Convener of PowerUp Nigeria, Adetayo Adegbemle, also emphasized the need for a leader who clearly understands the challenges confronting the electricity sector.
“Anyone appointed must already have demonstrated a strong understanding of the problems facing the power sector and should have practical ideas on how to address them,” Adegbemle said.
He warned that excessive political interference has long hindered progress in the industry and stressed that stable electricity supply is essential for economic growth, industrial expansion, and job creation.
Concerns Over Sector Stability
Similarly, energy policy expert Professor Dayo Ayoade expressed concern about the fragile state of Nigeria’s electricity sector, noting that the industry requires urgent reforms and competent leadership.
“The power sector is already in a difficult condition,” he said. “What we need now is someone with technical competence who can manage the crisis and drive meaningful reforms.”
However, some consumer advocates believe the government may not need to rush into appointing a new minister immediately.
Adeola Samuel-Ilori, coordinator of the Electricity Consumers Forum, suggested that the ministry could be temporarily supervised by the permanent secretary if Adelabu resigns.
“He could allow the ministry to be managed administratively by the permanent secretary until after the elections next year when a new cabinet may be formed,” Samuel-Ilori said.
Uncertainty Over Cabinet Reshuffle
As political calculations intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, attention now turns to the presidency and whether it will allow ministers seeking elective office to retain their positions or require them to resign.
For now, speculation continues to grow within political and energy circles about both Adelabu’s political ambitions and who might eventually take over the critical power portfolio if he steps down.
