Makinde Hits Adelabu Over ‘Èmilókàn’ Remark, Says Oyo Has Moved Beyond Stunt Politics

…As he insists people will no longer be swayed by slogans, says leadership must be about accountability.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has taken a swipe at the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, over his recent “Èmilókàn” (It’s my turn) comment, stating that Oyo State has gone beyond the era of politics based on entitlement or propaganda.

Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Consultative Meeting on the 2026 Budget held in Ibadan, Governor Makinde said the people of Oyo State are now more politically enlightened and will only support leaders who present credible plans and demonstrate capacity for development.

“If it is Èmilókàn, as the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, said last week, no problem,” Makinde remarked. “But I believe Oyo State has gone beyond that kind of stunt politics. Our people are now wiser, they will ask you questions about your plans and your ability to deliver on them.”

The governor emphasized that his administration has built a strong foundation for good governance based on data, planning, and accountability, which the people can use to evaluate future leaders.

“We already have data available in Oyo State,” he said. “Over the past six years, our people have become more informed. They will not be swayed by slogans or stunts. They want to know what you plan to do and whether you can actually do it.”

Makinde reiterated that the choice of who will succeed him in 2027 rests solely with the people of Oyo State, not with political godfathers or entitlement claims.

“The decision of who becomes the next governor of Oyo State rests with the people. Within our team, we have a roadmap for continued development beyond 2027, and those who have bought into this vision represent the best path forward,” he explained.

The governor also reflected on his own experience before coming into office, recalling that when he first sought the governorship position, many people doubted his capability because he had not held any political office.

“As of 2018, when I was consulting to become governor, there was no yardstick to measure me. I had never been a councillor or a local government chairman,” he said. “But I asked the people to trust me and judge me by my actions. Leadership must be about accountability, not entitlement.”

Makinde urged political leaders to focus on policies and projects that directly impact the lives of citizens rather than engaging in political theatrics.

“Every administration faces its challenges, but our approach has been to present a clear roadmap for Oyo State’s development — one that people can read, evaluate, and hold us accountable for,” he added.

He further expressed confidence that the people of Oyo State will continue to support leaders who prioritize progress, inclusivity, and the wellbeing of citizens over personal ambition.