Ex-Minister Adelabu Arrives Oyo, Directs Traffic In Ibadan

IBADAN, NIGERIA — Former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, made a high-profile return to Oyo State on Wednesday, barely 24 hours after submitting his resignation to President Bola Tinubu.

The former minister arrived at the Ladoke Akintola International Airport to a massive reception from supporters, signaling an immediate shift from federal administration to local politics.

In a move that has since gone viral on social media, Adelabu was captured in videos directing traffic on a congested road in the state capital. Dressed in blue native attire, the former minister navigated vehicles while acknowledging cheers from onlookers.

Speaking with journalists shortly after his arrival, Adelabu expressed satisfaction with his performance at the national level. “I have seen, and I have conquered,” he stated, adding that he had contributed his best to the development of the power sector.

His return to Ibadan follows a formal exit from the cabinet to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State. According to reports, his resignation was contained in a letter addressed to the President on Tuesday.

Although the resignation is slated to officially take effect on April 30, 2026, to allow for a transition period, political analysts told NaijaChoice News that his early presence in Ibadan indicates his campaign machinery is already in full gear.

During his tenure, the Ministry of Power remained one of the most scrutinized agencies in the country. Adelabu maintained that his efforts during his stay in office were aimed at stabilizing one of Nigeria’s most critical infrastructure sectors.

The “traffic warden” gesture has sparked diverse reactions among residents, with some viewing it as a populist campaign strategy and others seeing it as a sign of his grassroots connection.

The former minister’s homecoming sets the stage for a heated political season in Oyo State, as the race for the Agodi Government House begins to take shape.

This early transition from the federal cabinet to the streets of Ibadan underscores the high stakes of the upcoming gubernatorial elections in the Pacesetter State.