Governor Seyi Makinde says Oyo State politics has evolved beyond ‘Emi Lokan’ antics, taking a swipe at the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu
Speaking during the Oyo State Stakeholders’ Consultative and Engagement Meeting on the 2026 Budget, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, on Thursday, Governor Makinde dismissed the notion of entitlement politics in the state.
Adelabu, in a viral video that circulated across social media 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 caused intense political debate ahead of the 2027 election.
But Makinde, addressing an audience of business leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and community stakeholders on Thursday said the people of Oyo State have 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 centres on competence, accountability, and tangible service delivery rather than personal ambition or perceived entitlement.
“Our people are wiser now. They’ve seen that leadership is not about who feels it’s their turn, but about who can truly serve and deliver results,” Makinde added.
