Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has subtly taken a swipe at the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, over his recent “Émi Lókàn” declaration while unveiling his aspiration ahead of 2027 governorship race.
Adelabu, in a viral video on social media that has since sparked debate across political circles in Oyo, had declared that after contesting in 2019 and 2023, it was now his turn to lead the state; reinforcing the now-famous “Émi Lókàn” slogan that gained national prominence during the 2023 general elections.
But Governor Makinde, during the Oyo State Stakeholders’ Consultative and Engagement Meeting on the 2026 Budget held at the International Conference Centre in Ibadan, addressed Adelabu’s claim head-on.
Speaking before an audience of economic stakeholders, community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups, the governor said Oyo people had grown past the politics of entitlement and theatrics.
“Oyo State has gone beyond the politics of Émi Lókàn. Oyo State has gone beyond stunt politics. The people of Oyo will no longer be swayed by slogans or emotions. They will ask you: will you be able to do the work?” Makinde stated.
The governor’s remarks, though measured, carried the unmistakable undertone of a political counterpunch, one that emphasized the emerging ideological divide in Oyo’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
Makinde further noted that governance in Oyo had become more about service delivery and accountability than about personal ambition or perceived entitlement.
“Our people are now wiser. They’ve seen that leadership is not about who feels it’s their turn but about who can truly serve and deliver results,” he added.