Maroc - MOCKINBIRD.COM.NG - A La Une - 18/Aug 07:11

Loose Talk May Cost Adelabu 2027 Ambition

 *By Faleye Oluwatosin*In politics, words carry as much weight as policies. Reckless speech is never harmless, and for leaders, it often comes with consequences that outlive the moment. Nigeria’s current Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adekola Adelabu—popularly known as “Penkelemesi”—is once again in the spotlight for his choice of words.Adelabu, a former Deputy Governor of Operations at the Central Bank of Nigeria and one-time All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, has long been dogged by criticisms about his rhetoric. In 2019, when he contested the Oyo governorship on the APC platform, many political observers argued that his “loose talk” contributed significantly to his defeat against Governor Seyi Makinde.During the recently concluded by-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency on August 16, 2025, Adelabu, now Minister of Power and leader of the APC in Oyo State, was captured on camera at a rally in Bodija Market making derogatory remarks about women in the party. The incident has since sparked fresh debate about his communication style and its impact on both his political career and the image of the APC in Oyo State.The damage of such speech is far-reaching. Careless words do not simply vanish after the rally—they leave behind an aftertaste that lingers. They can weaken the party’s image, alienate potential supporters, and plant seeds of division within the political structure. In a state as politically competitive as Oyo, even a few misplaced remarks can cost dearly at the polls.Beyond politics, reckless speech erodes public trust. Citizens expect leaders to embody wisdom and restraint, not reckless abandon. Words shape perception, and perception shapes credibility. Once people begin to view a leader as careless with speech, they may also doubt the leader’s ability to govern with caution and fairness.Loose talk also provides easy ammunition for opponents. Every careless statement is recycled in the court of public opinion, replayed by rivals, and magnified by the media. A remark made in a moment of carelessness can follow a politician for years, resurfacing at critical points to damage electoral chances.Leadership, at its core, demands vision, discipline, and emotional intelligence. Credentials and experience mean little when speech undermines both character and credibility. For Adelabu, whose political journey remains active as 2027 approaches, the lesson is clear: words can either pave the road to leadership or block the path entirely.In the end, loose talk is more than mere noise—it destabilizes, divides, and destroys. Silence, or the discipline of thoughtful speech, often carries more strength than reckless outbursts. Leaders must always remember that in politics, words are not just spoken; they are recorded, remembered, and weaponized.Public ReactionsThe video of Adelabu’s remarks quickly circulated online, sparking mixed reactions from Nigerians:“Maybe they were distracting him. Guess they saw someone among the gathering that is their sure banker. With his statement, they were hustling,” wrote Faleye Itunu Tosin-Eboigbe.“Vote for a short man at your own risk? My husband must not see this o!” joked Esther Makinde.“He is Kwam 1’s counterpart… too proud,” commented Sangodele Oluseyi Florence.“Another ‘Constituted Authority’ in the making!” said Adeyemi Odedokun.“What do you expect from someone power drunk?” asked Odusanya Tan Fe Ani.“Band A or Rubber Band Man—Oyo awaiting you,” teased Olayiwola Saheed Adesina Oyodo.“And he wants to contest for governor in Oyo State? See finish,” wrote Odebowale Abass.“Though the question was cool, it’s very heavy coming from his mouth,” added Oluwatobi Adedeji Ajisunwon.Clearly, Adelabu’s words have once again ignited controversy, underscoring the undeniable truth: in leadership, speech is power, and careless speech can cost everything.