Reported by: Puis Althea | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Nigerian rapper and activist Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, has launched a blistering attack on the All Progressives Congress' campaign slogan "Emi l'okan" (It's my turn), describing it as the most absurd political mantra he has ever encountered in his entire life. The outspoken entertainer made the remark during a recent interview on Arise Television, where he also took aim at First Lady Oluremi Tinubu's appeal to Afrobeats stars to channel their resources into charitable causes rather than purchasing luxury items. Falz argued that the administration's slogan, which served as a rallying cry during the 2023 presidential campaign, has now been rendered meaningless by the government's complaints about the burdens of office.
The controversy began when the First Lady, speaking at an event in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Saturday, urged top Nigerian musicians including Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy to stop buying flashy cars and instead use their wealth to support small-scale businesses and charitable foundations. Mrs. Tinubu noted that the government alone could not meet every need and called on successful entertainers to contribute to nation-building. Reacting to the appeal during the Arise TV interview, Falz argued that addressing poverty and supporting struggling businesses are fundamental responsibilities of the government, not private individuals. "Why ask individuals when this is actually your job to do? What do you mean by saying the pressure is too much on the government? Did anyone force you to take up the job?" the rapper asked.
It was at this point that Falz delivered his most scathing critique, taking aim at the "Emilokan" slogan that had defined the Tinubu campaign. "From day one that you set out on your political journey, this is the day you have been waiting for. So how can you now say the pressure is too much?" he said. The rapper recalled that the campaign slogan for the administration was "Emilokan," which translates to "it's my turn," and questioned why those who had aggressively sought power were now complaining about its demands. "In my entire life, I've never seen anything more absurd than the 'Emi l'okan' slogan," Falz declared, according to sources familiar with the interview.
Falz's criticism of the administration is not new. In previous interviews, he has consistently questioned what President Tinubu planned to do with the opportunity Nigerians gave him. In June 2025, during an interview with Arise 360, Falz expressed disappointment with the country's trajectory under Tinubu's leadership, stating that Nigeria had moved backwards. "There is not much progress that has been recorded. I remember the campaign slogan being 'it's my turn,' 'emi lo Kan,' which translates to it's my turn and now it's like, 'What was he planning on doing?'" he said at the time. In another interview with Soundcity, when asked what came to mind when he heard President Tinubu's name, Falz responded succinctly: "Hardship. No elaboration".
The rapper's latest remarks have drawn a sharp response from the ruling party. Ayekooto Akindele, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, took to his verified X account to dismiss Falz's criticism, claiming the First Lady's appeal was directed at some of Nigeria's biggest Afrobeats stars and not the rapper. "Falz, stop talking jargons. The First Lady didn't mention your name. She knows you yourself need help due to career capsizing. She only mentioned Davido, Wizkid and Burna Boy. So, why you're the one replying is what I don't understand," Akindele wrote. The exchange has since sparked intense debate on social media, with supporters of both figures arguing over the role of government, celebrities, and private citizens in addressing Nigeria's economic challenges.
Falz's critique of the "Emilokan" slogan taps into a broader national conversation about political entitlement and accountability. The phrase, which translates to "it is my turn," emerged as a powerful political mantra during the 2023 presidential campaign, resonating with supporters who believed Tinubu had earned the right to lead after years of political struggle. However, critics have argued that the slogan embodies an entitlement mentality that prioritises political ambition over competence and performance. Falz's assertion that he has "never seen anything more absurd" than the slogan reflects the growing frustration among many Nigerians who feel that the administration has failed to deliver on its promises despite its assertive campaign rhetoric.
As Nigeria approaches the mid-point of President Tinubu's first term, the debate over the "Emilokan" slogan and its implications continues to intensify. For Falz and many young Nigerians, the slogan has become a symbol of unfulfilled promises and a government that appears unprepared for the challenges of leadership. The rapper's willingness to speak truth to power, even at the risk of attracting criticism from ruling party stalwarts, has solidified his reputation as one of the country's most outspoken activists. As one social media user commented, "When people like Falz speak, e dey pain them. But he's saying the truth — no be vibes we go chop!". The exchange between Falz and the APC chieftain is unlikely to be the last word on the matter, as Nigerians continue to demand accountability from their leaders and question the meaning of a slogan that once promised so much.
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