How Tinubu Tried to Stop Adelabu From Resigning but Failed — Report

President Bola Tinubu reportedly made direct and indirect efforts to stop the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, from leaving his cabinet, but the minister proceeded with his resignation, according to *The Punch*.

The report stated that Adelabu eventually stepped down despite interventions from the Presidency, including appeals conveyed through intermediaries and a final meeting with the President at the State House.

A senior government official disclosed that the President had attempted to keep him in office, saying: “The President didn’t want him to go. In fact, the President sent people to tell him not to resign.”

Adelabu, however, maintained his decision, citing his intention to contest the 2027 Oyo State governorship election. He formally submitted his resignation in a letter dated April 22, 2026, addressed to the President through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

According to insiders, the final conversation between both men took place at the Presidential Villa shortly before the resignation became public. During the meeting, Tinubu reportedly questioned his electoral chances.

One source said: “The President asked him, ‘Are you sure you can win the ticket?’ and he answered, ‘Yes, sir, I can win. I will win.’”

The President then responded briefly, with the source adding: “And the President told him, ‘Best of luck.’”

Another Presidency source maintained that Adelabu’s departure was voluntary, insisting he was not removed from office. The official also noted that Tinubu had previously defended his performance despite criticism of the power sector.

“The President didn’t want him to go… he was satisfied with some of the work being done in the sector,” the source said.

Adelabu’s resignation came after a directive requiring political appointees seeking elective office in 2027 to step down by March 31, 2026. While some ministers complied earlier, Adelabu’s exit came later, though allies argue it still falls within legal timelines.

Supporters of the former minister insist his decision aligns with long-standing political ambitions in Oyo State, where he has contested governorship elections twice without success.

The Presidency has not issued an official statement beyond confirming receipt of the resignation letter.