In the early 2000s, when Lagos was rapidly redeveloping, one plan almost erased a community landmark: the relocation of Tolu Schools Complex in Ajegunle. The state government wanted the land for another project, and residents were told the schools would be moved out of Tolu.
That’s when Hon. Wilson Diriwari Oladipupo stepped in.
As a grassroots leader and lawyer representing the people of Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Oladipupo didn’t just protest. He fought. He took the battle straight to the Government House, arguing that education infrastructure in Ajegunle was already scarce. Moving Tolu Schools Complex would have forced thousands of children to travel far for basic education, increase dropout rates, and break the community’s anchor.
His argument was simple but powerful: “Development that destroys schools is not development for the people.” He mobilized parents, teachers, community leader s, and students. The pressure worked. Lagos state government reversed the plan and Tolu Schools Complex remained where it is today.
That stand made Oladipupo a legend in Ajeromi-Ifelodun. While many politicians make noise during elections, he’s remembered for one thing: he chose the future of children over the convenience of government plans.
Today, Tolu Schools Complex still stands on its original site, educating generations of children from Tolu, Olodi-Apapa, and nearby communities.
In Nigerian politics where projects often win over people, Hon. Wilson Diriwari Oladipupo chose the people. And that’s why, in Ajegunle, his name is still mentioned with respect.