Minister of Power and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adebayo Adelabu, has openly declared that it is his turn to govern Oyo State come 2027, adopting the popular political slogan “Emi Lokan” (meaning It’s my turn).
In a viral video making the rounds on Sunday, Adelabu confidently told supporters that his ambition was driven by service and a long-standing commitment to the people of Oyo State.
Speaking in Yoruba, the former Central Bank Deputy Governor said:
“I have been on this political journey for quite some time. In politics, one may not always get what one deserves in a single attempt, I’ve learned that from experience.
“I have paid my dues. I contested alongside Seyi Makinde in 2019 and again in 2023. Today, I declare — it is our turn; it is my turn in 2027, as God has revealed it. Adelabu! Àwálòkàn! Penkelemesi Èmilòkàn!”
He further revealed that his campaign team would soon embark on a door-to-door mobilisation drive across the state, expressing optimism that victory was certain through collective effort and divine backing.
The minister’s statement comes months after he dismissed reports that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu planned to impose him as the APC governorship candidate in Oyo State. Adelabu maintained that when the time comes, the party will conduct a transparent primary where the best candidate will emerge.
The declaration has since generated reactions within the Oyo political space, with many observers noting that Adelabu’s “Emi Lokan” slogan mirrors the same phrase famously used by President Tinubu during his 2023 presidential campaign.