When a leader returns: Asiwaju’s visit and Ayere’s loud gratitude

In today’s Nigeria, where many leaders are celebrated for titles rather than tangible impact, Asiwaju Prince Olatunji is a rare exception. He leads not from a distance, but through consistent presence, generosity, and sincere community engagement.

His recent visit to Okene, where he met with former Governor Yahaya Bello and current Governor Usman Ododo, was not just symbolic, it was strategic. It reflects his dedication to bridging grassroots development with broader governance. But even more powerful than the high-level meetings was what happened afterwards: his triumphant return to Ayere, his beloved hometown.

There, the air was different.

As he walked through the community, hand in hand with cheering supporters, what stood out was not just the welcome, but the visible legacy of his compassion. Along the dusty roads and village paths were signs of his impact:

• The market he built, now bustling with life.
• The electricity bills he cleared, lighting homes that would otherwise be in darkness.
• The needy and aged he supports with monthly stipends, reminders that dignity does not have to disappear with age or hardship.

His signature projects weren’t whispered about, they were proudly pointed at by locals as he passed. This wasn’t just a homecoming; it was a walking testimony of what one man’s love for his people can achieve.

At the Palace of the Alayere, Asiwaju Olatunji didn’t just bask in admiration. He used the moment to preach peace and unity, calling on the people of Ayere to shun division and embrace love.

“Without peace, there can be no development. Without love, there can be no true progress,” he said.
It was a leader’s sermon, humble, heartfelt, and timely.

This is not charity for praise. It’s legacy through service. His foundation, the Prince Olatunji Olusoji Foundation, is now a lifeline in Ayere, from covering NECO and WAEC fees to providing schoolbooks, to ensuring clean water through promised boreholes.

He lives in Delta State, but his heart is at home. Even his cars bear Kogi State and Ijumu LGA plate numbers, subtle yet strong reminders of where his loyalty lies.

In a nation that often complains about failed leadership, Ayere celebrates one that works, because they see it, touch it, live it.

So as we reflect on his visit and the love he received, let us remember:
Leadership is not about position; it’s about presence.
It’s not about speeches; it’s about sacrifice.

Asiwaju Prince Olatunji has become a standard for what community-first leadership looks like, not by talking about change, but by being the change.

And that, more than anything, is why his name will be remembered long after the crowd disperses.

Arowolo Solomon Alaba is a technocrat journalist