Adelabu Resigns as Power Minister Amid Cabinet Shake-Up; Presidency Clarifies Voluntary Exits

Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) has been thrown into renewed uncertainty following the resignation of the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and the recent exit of two other cabinet members, sparking concerns over a broader government reshuffle.

Adelabu stepped down from his position to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State, further widening the gaps within President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet. His resignation comes shortly after the departures of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa.

The developments have heightened anxiety among ministers, especially after earlier tensions surrounding the March 31 deadline for appointees intending to contest in the 2027 general elections. A senior official at the Presidential Villa described the atmosphere as tense, likening it to “an earthquake,” with many officials uncertain about their positions.

Despite widespread speculation that the exits were part of a purge, the Presidency clarified that both Edun and Dangiwa resigned voluntarily. Edun reportedly stepped down on health grounds, while Dangiwa also tendered his resignation and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve.

Adelabu, in a resignation letter dated April 22, said his exit would take effect on April 30, in compliance with the amended Electoral Act, which requires public office holders seeking elective positions to step down. He thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his tenure as a privilege.

In his letter, Adelabu also proposed the creation of a Coordinating Minister for Energy to better align Nigeria’s power, gas, and related sectors. He argued that stronger central coordination is necessary to sustain reforms and improve efficiency across the energy value chain.

Highlighting his achievements, Adelabu pointed to the implementation of the Electricity Act 2023, increased power generation exceeding 6,000 megawatts, improved transmission infrastructure, and reforms in the distribution sector. He also noted growth in sector revenue from N1 trillion in 2023 to N2.3 trillion in 2025.

However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, including gas supply constraints, infrastructure vandalism, and gaps in the commercialisation of the electricity market, proposing further reforms such as cost-reflective tariffs and increased investment.

Meanwhile, reactions have trailed Edun’s exit, with the Group of Nigerian Contractors (GNC) welcoming the development. The group accused the former finance minister of delaying payments owed to contractors, which they said has caused significant financial strain across the sector.

Looking ahead, President Tinubu has forwarded the nomination of Muttaqha Rabe Darma as the new Minister of Housing to the Senate for confirmation. He has also requested legislative approval for the appointment of Lamido Yuguda as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

As the situation unfolds, observers say further cabinet adjustments may be likely, as the administration seeks to strengthen governance and reposition itself ahead of the 2027 elections.