Beyond “Emi Lo Kan”: Rethinking Leadership and Competence in Nigeria’s Political Landscape

 Beyond “Emi Lo Kan”: Rethinking Leadership and Competence in Nigeria’s Political Landscape

By Dr. Akinlooye Sarafadeen Olatunde, PhD

The phrase “Emi Lo Kan” — meaning “It’s my turn” — popularized by the current President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has evolved beyond a campaign slogan. It has become a political anthem, particularly among leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Yet, while it resonated as a rallying cry during the presidential campaign, its growing adoption across different states and political circles raises deep questions about the direction of Nigeria’s democracy.

The aftermath of the “Emi Lo Kan” success at the national level has not produced the kind of transformation Nigerians hoped for. The country continues to battle worsening economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and a decline in the standard of living. These realities suggest that the “turn-by-turn” mentality may not be serving the true purpose of democracy. Leadership is not a birthright or entitlement; it is a responsibility anchored on competence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to public service.

In Osun State, for instance, the “Emi Lo Kan” phenomenon has resurfaced in the contest for the next governorship candidate of the APC. Different zones are now echoing their own versions — “Osogbo Lo Kan”, “Ife Lo Kan”, “Iwo Lo Kan”. This trend reveals how political competition has shifted from merit to sectional entitlement. Instead of debating who has the capacity, vision, and leadership qualities to deliver good governance, the argument has become about whose turn it is.

This development is worrisome. It reflects a growing culture of sectionalism, ethnicity, and tribalism in political decision-making. Such tendencies erode the essence of democracy and undermine national unity. When leaders are chosen based on sentiment rather than competence, the results are predictable — weak institutions, policy inconsistency, and poor governance. Nigeria’s current state of affairs is a clear testimony to this.

For Nigeria and its federating states to progress, we must move beyond “Emi Lo Kan” politics. The nation needs a deliberate shift toward promoting quality leadership and meritocracy. Political parties should prioritize capacity, experience, and moral integrity over geography or personal entitlement. The focus should be on who can lead effectively, solve problems, and uplift the people — not on who believes it is their turn.

Democracy thrives where citizens elect leaders who are competent, visionary, and selfless. Sectionalism and tribal politics only divide the polity, breed resentment, and stifle development. Nigeria must face the reality that promoting mediocrity in the name of “our turn” will only deepen our challenges.

It is time for Nigerians — voters, politicians, and institutions alike — to rise above sentiments and embrace competence as the guiding principle in leadership selection. Personal ambition must never outweigh national interest. Our progress as a people depends on our collective ability to prioritize competence over entitlement, service over self-interest, and national unity over sectional loyalty.

Only then can Nigeria find the path to good governance, peace, and prosperity that truly reflects the spirit of democracy.

— Dr. Akinlooye Sarafadeen Olatunde, PhD