2027: Oyo Has Outgrown Entitlement Politics – Makinde Responds to Adelabu’s ‘Émi Lókàn’ Declaration
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has taken a subtle but firm swipe at the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, following his recent “Émi Lókàn” (It’s My Turn) declaration ahead of the 2027 governorship election in the state.
Speaking on Wednesday during the Oyo State Stakeholders’ Consultative and Engagement Meeting on the 2026 Budget held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Governor Makinde stated that the people of Oyo have gone beyond the politics of entitlement and empty rhetoric.
According to him, governance in Oyo State has transcended the era of political theatrics and personal ambition, noting that the citizens are now more concerned about leaders who deliver tangible results rather than those who feel entitled to power.
In his words: “Oyo State has moved past the politics of entitlement. Our people are more politically aware now. They will no longer be swayed by empty slogans or personal claims to leadership. Governance is about service, not entitlement.”
Makinde’s remarks appeared to be a direct response to Chief Adelabu, who, in a viral video making the rounds on social media, declared that after contesting for governor in 2019 and 2023, it was now his turn to lead Oyo State — a statement that echoes the “Émi Lókàn” slogan popularized during the 2023 general elections.
Adelabu, a former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the current Minister of Power, had recently begun consultations with political stakeholders across Oyo State, signaling his renewed interest in the 2027 governorship race.
However, Makinde’s comment underscores his belief that Oyo’s political landscape has evolved beyond entitlement narratives and personality-driven campaigns. The governor emphasized that leadership in the state must be earned through performance, integrity, and genuine connection with the people.
The exchange between both leaders has further heightened political discussions in Oyo State, as the countdown to the 2027 elections gradually begins.