Governor Makinde dismisses ‘Èmi Lókàn’ politics, says Oyo people want competence
Oyo State has gone beyond the politics of ‘Émi Lókàn.’ Oyo State has gone beyond stunt politics,” Makinde declared. “Our people will no longer be swayed by slogans or emotions. They will ask you: ‘Will you be able to do the work?’”
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has taken a veiled swipe at the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, over his recent statement, “Émi Lókàn” (It’s My Turn).
Speaking during the Oyo State Stakeholders’ Consultative and Engagement Meeting on the 2026 Budget, held on Thursday at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Governor Makinde dismissed the notion of entitlement politics in the state.
Adelabu, in a viral video that circulated earlier in the week, had declared that after contesting the Oyo governorship in 2019 and 2023, it was now his turn to lead the state, a statement that has stirred intense political debate ahead of the 2027 elections.
But addressing an audience of business leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and community stakeholders, Makinde said the people of Oyo State had moved past emotional and slogan-driven politics.
Oyo State has gone beyond the politics of ‘Émi Lókàn.’ Oyo State has gone beyond stunt politics,” Makinde declared. “Our people will no longer be swayed by slogans or emotions. They will ask you: ‘Will you be able to do the work?’
The governor emphasised that the state’s political maturity now revolves around competence, accountability, and tangible service delivery rather than personal ambition or perceived entitlement.
Our people are wiser now,” Makinde added. “They’ve seen that leadership is not about who feels it’s their turn, but about who can truly serve and deliver results.”
