**The Power Shuffle: Who'll Replace Adelabu as Minister?** As the 2027 Oyo State governorship election draws near, the rumour mill is abuzz with the news that incumbent Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, is preparing to leave his position to vie for the top seat in Oyo State. The PUNCH has gathered that interested individuals are already jostling for the ministerial seat, with some stakeholders urging President Bola Tinubu to appoint a technocrat as Adelabu's replacement. The stage is set for a power play, as the current minister is expected to resign in the coming weeks to pursue his gubernatorial ambitions. Adelabu had hinted at his plans to achieve certain feats "before I leave office" during an engagement with stakeholders in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry last year. His aides have confirmed that the minister intends to contest the Oyo governorship election, having previously run against Governor Seyi Makinde in 2019 and 2023. The Electoral Act 2026 and the revised timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission have created a timeline for party primaries, which will commence on April 23 and end on May 30, 2026. As the clock ticks, individuals interested in Adelabu's job are lobbying the presidency, knowing that he will resign to pursue his gubernatorial ambitions. However, stakeholders are urging Tinubu to put a round peg in a round hole, saying the new minister must be a technocrat with knowledge of the power sector and a national agenda. A power sector expert, Bode Fadipe, advised the president to appoint someone who has a clear understanding of the assignment and has demonstrated a commitment to the national interest. The Convener of PowerUp Nigeria, Adetayo Adegbemle, also emphasized the need for a technocrat who understands the challenges of the power sector and has a clear vision for its development. Adegbemle argued that such a person must be able to drive positive change and improve the lives of Nigerians. As the power shuffle continues, one thing is certain: the next minister of power must be someone who has the expertise and vision to tackle the country's energy challenges. The ball is in President Tinubu's court to make the right appointment and ensure that the power sector is in good hands. In the end, the appointment of a new minister of power will have far-reaching implications for the country's energy sector.