Nigerian rapper, actor and outspoken activist Falz has taken aim at the political slogan “Emi Lokan,” describing it as one of the most disturbing symbols of the country’s current leadership culture.

In a forthright television interview, Falz argued that the phrase, which translates to “It is my turn,” exposes a mindset of entitlement rather than service. He said the slogan encapsulates a political class more focused on personal ambition than on the urgent needs of citizens.

Falz questioned how such a slogan could ever have become a rallying cry in a country grappling with insecurity, economic hardship and failing public services. According to him, the idea that leadership is a “turn” to be claimed, rather than a duty to be earned and discharged, is fundamentally at odds with democratic values.

He criticised what he sees as the administration’s skewed priorities, citing heavy spending on official convoys, luxury vehicles and presidential jets while many Nigerians struggle with rising living costs, unemployment and persistent violence in several regions.

For Falz, the argument that those in power should be given time or sympathy because of the pressures of office is unacceptable. He stressed that public officials actively campaigned for their positions and therefore cannot plead surprise at the scale of the challenges they now face.

“Emi Lokan,” he suggested, is not just a slogan but a window into the psychology of those who use it: a declaration that power is a reward owed to them, rather than a trust held on behalf of the people.

The artist, known for weaving social commentary into his music and public statements, framed the slogan as a warning sign for Nigeria’s democracy. When political messaging is built around personal entitlement, he argued, citizens should question whether their leaders are truly committed to accountability, transparency and reform.

Falz’s comments add to a growing chorus of voices challenging the tone and substance of political communication in Nigeria, and calling for a shift from rhetoric of entitlement to language rooted in responsibility and service.