Why I No Longer Share Money, Vehicles To Constituents, Party Leaders – Rep Member Wole Oke

Amid rising opposition to his reported interest in seeking another term in the National Assembly, a long-serving member of the House of Representatives, Wole Oke, says he has abandoned the practice of distributing cash, vehicles and motorcycles to political allies and constituents, insisting that such gestures have proven unsustainable and largely unappreciated.

Oke, who represents the Obokun/Oriade federal constituency of Osun State, said his years in politics have taught him that material handouts rarely translate into lasting impact or loyalty.

According to the lawmaker, many of the vehicles and motorcycles he distributed to supporters and party leaders in the past have either fallen into disrepair, been sold off, or are no longer in use, while some of the beneficiaries have even turned into political opponents.

“I have given monetary gifts, bought vehicles and motorbikes for constituents and party leaders and stalwarts in the past,” Oke disclosed, adding “Most of them have forgotten. The cars are off the road and motorcycles are either sold or out of use. Some are even my political enemies today.”

The veteran legislator said the experience forced him to rethink his approach to constituency intervention, leading him to shift his focus from direct material gifts to long-term investment in young people.

“I decided to change my ways and invest in our youths who can in future look after our society,” the Federal legislator declared.

As part of that shift, Oke unveiled beneficiaries of a technical education scholarship programme covering students across the nine government technical colleges in Osun State.

The lawmaker described the initiative as a strategic effort to strengthen human capital development and provide young people with skills that could secure their future and contribute to society.

“Human capacity development is a legacy worth pursuing,” Oke asserted.

The announcement comes at a politically sensitive time for the federal lawmaker, who has faced growing opposition from some political actors within his constituency over speculation that he may seek another term in the House of Representatives after years in office.

Oke has been one of the most enduring figures in Osun politics, having served multiple terms in the National Assembly where he has built a reputation for long-standing representation.

His political trajectory recently drew fresh attention following his move from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress, a decision that stirred debate among political stakeholders in the state.

While some supporters argued that the switch could strengthen his influence within the ruling political structure, critics questioned the timing and motives behind the defection, with some opposition figures suggesting it was linked to future electoral calculations.