Hon. Kolawole Babatunde, popularly known by many as the “Amaechi of Ondo,” has emerged as one of the most influential and unifying figures within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State. His rise to prominence is the result of years of strategic political engagement, grassroots mobilisation, and a solid record of public service.
A former member of the House of Representatives for Akoko South East/South West Federal Constituency in the 8th Assembly, Hon. Babatunde has remained firmly connected to his people and constituency. Beyond legislative duties, he deepened his grassroots ties as the Special Adviser on Rural and Community Development to the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, a position he held with distinction from 2019 to 2023.
His reputation as a reliable campaign strategist was further cemented when he successfully served as the Director-General of campaign teams for both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Ondo North and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Akoko. Under his leadership, the APC secured decisive victories in those constituencies, reaffirming his capacity to deliver electoral success.
Widely respected for his dedication to community development, Hon. Babatunde has consistently championed projects that directly impact the lives of ordinary people. From constructing markets and boreholes to building school culverts and distributing empowerment grants to party members, youths, and market women, his contributions have earned him several recognitions, including the State NYSC Merit Award and the 2024 Community Service Champion Award.
As the APC in Ondo State prepares for a new chapter, many see Hon. Kolawole Babatunde as a bridge-builder and a trusted advocate of unity, internal democracy, and inclusive leadership. His leadership style, marked by accessibility, humility, and fairness, has endeared him to both the youth and elders within the party.
Recently honoured with the Sunshine State Leadership Award for Political Strategy and Governance Advocacy, his emergence as a key figure within the party reflects not just his political skill, but the trust and confidence placed in him by stakeholders across the state. Hon. Babatunde stands today as a symbol of renewed hope for APC faithful, offering a blend of tested experience, grassroots appeal, and a clear vision for repositioning the party towards greater cohesion and electoral competitiveness.
