Adebayo Adelabu, the minister of power has dismissed reports claiming he has resigned from office, describing them as false and misleading amid growing speculation about his political future.
The denial comes against the backdrop of a federal government directive requiring political appointees interested in contesting the 2027 general elections to step down from their positions.
Reacting via a WhatsApp message to journalists, Bolaji Tunji, his special assistant on media refuted the claims.
“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 had been marked “fake news”.
The rumours were said to have gained momentum following recent remarks by the minister, which some interpreted as suggesting a possible political move ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja last week, Adelabu declined to confirm whether he would resign, while acknowledging the timeline for political decisions.
“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, “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.”
However, in remarks that further fuelled speculation, the minister said, “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.”
The development follows a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mandating ministers, heads of agencies and other political appointees seeking elective office in 2027 to resign on or before March 31, 2026, in line with the Electoral Act and the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Adelabu has been widely linked with a potential bid for the Oyo state governorship, although no formal declaration has been made.