Adebayo Adelabu Resigns as Power Minister to Enter Oyo Governorship Race Amid Criticism of Sector Performance

Minister Adebayo Adelabu quits the Power Ministry to run for Oyo State governor, facing criticism over grid failures and sector performance during his tenure.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 27, 2026, 11:27 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Business Hallmark

Resignation and Political Ambition

Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, has officially quit the cabinet of President Bola Tinubu to contest the governorship of Oyo State under the All Progressives Congress (APC). His resignation, finalized last Thursday, puts an end to months of speculation regarding his political future. Adelabu’s departure is seen as a high-stakes move, as he leaves a ministerial position to enter a crowded field of over 15 aspirants, including Senator Sarafadeen Alli, in a state where the APC's candidate is often determined by presidential consensus.

Assessment of Ministerial Tenure

Adelabu’s tenure at the Ministry of Power has faced intense public scrutiny. Critics argue that despite repeated promises of reform under initiatives like "Light Up Nigeria" and the Presidential Power Initiative, electricity supply has worsened. In 2025 alone, the national grid suffered over a dozen collapses, leading to widespread blackouts and economic hardship for businesses and artisans. While Adelabu's associates blame systemic issues such as gas shortages and funding gaps, opponents point to a lack of tangible achievements during his three years in office.

Financial Allocations vs. Sector Outcomes

The Ministry of Power received substantial funding during Adelabu's leadership, totaling over 4 trillion naira across four fiscal years: