The Maiyegun of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, Prince Wale Oluwa, popularly known as PWO, has called on public office holders to focus on purposeful and impactful representation rather than viewing politics merely as a contest for positions.
In an exclusive interview with Lagos Focus, Prince Oluwa emphasized that politics should not be reduced to superficial gestures or temporary welfare schemes, but should instead serve as a platform for meaningful governance that transforms lives.
“It’s not all about the position or vying for the position. At the end of the day, you realize the purpose of life is the life of purpose itself. If you do not have a well-defined purpose, then why the aim?” he said.
The traditional leader noted that while welfare services are important, they should not be mistaken as the core of governance. According to him, progressive leadership should go beyond distributing food items or short-term relief. Instead, he stressed the need for sustainable initiatives such as business support, entrepreneurial training, and structured empowerment programs that can lift people out of poverty.
“When you empower people, it goes beyond giving them food. It’s about setting up businesses, providing business guidance, and creating supervisory structures to ensure return on investment. These are practical ways of reducing poverty,” Prince Oluwa explained.
Highlighting the evolving nature of governance, he urged politicians to embrace innovative approaches that yield measurable results. “We shouldn’t do things the same way always and expect different results. People want to see new things and feel direct impact—a redefined hope for the people,” he said.
While refraining from setting an agenda for the government, Prince Oluwa maintained that community leaders and political stakeholders can contribute by making suggestions and sharing manifestos that promote people-centered governance.
Speaking on the local political landscape, he expressed confidence in the leadership of the current Ajeromi Council chairman, describing him as “a smart leader connected to the grassroots.” He added, “I want to believe he knows the pains of the grassroots and will tackle them. But I pray God will help all of us.”
Prince Oluwa reiterated that the ultimate goal of politicking is not the pursuit of titles but the delivery of purposeful governance. “Our primary purpose of politicking is for impactful administration and representation. That’s why there should be endearing programs that will make Ajegunle—and indeed every community—a better place to live and work,” he concluded.
