Hon. Kolawole Babatunde: The Architect of Grassroots Victory for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa
Hon. Kolawole Babatunde, fondly known as Amaechi, stands out as a leader whose strategic brilliance and unwavering dedication have left a lasting mark on Ondo State. Renowned for his commitment to progressive governance and grassroots mobilization, Hon. Kolawole played a pivotal role in the resounding success of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s re-election campaign. His efforts, characterized by meticulous planning and relentless execution, have solidified his reputation as a key architect of political victories in the state.
As the Convener of the Ondo Consolidation Group (OCG), Hon. Kolawole provided an unrivaled support structure that became the backbone of the campaign’s success. With coordinators across all 18 Local Government Areas and a vast statewide network of committed members, OCG exemplified strategic coordination and effectiveness. Demonstrating early support for Governor Aiyedatiwa’s ambition, OCG was the first group to donate an 18-seater Hummer bus in February. This gesture not only symbolized unwavering loyalty but also significantly enhanced the mobility of campaign members, ensuring that consultations and campaign activities reached every nook and cranny of Ondo State.
Hon. Kolawole’s dedication extended beyond OCG through the deployment of his personal political structure, the Kola Grassroots Network (KGN). Leveraging this robust network, he galvanized massive support across the Akoko South East/Akoko South West Federal Constituency. His efforts included the provision of thousands of branded campaign materials—ranging from Fez caps to customized shirts—ensuring that the Governor’s presence was felt across every community. These logistics, coupled with his astute leadership, positioned Governor Aiyedatiwa’s campaign as a formidable force.
In his capacity as the Director-General of the Lucky Aiyedatiwa Campaign Council for Akoko South East/Akoko South West Federal Constituency, Hon. Kolawole’s strategic leadership was further evident. By constituting and inaugurating a 25-member Advisory Council of seasoned politicians, he spearheaded an aggressive mobilization drive. This initiative ensured that the campaign efforts in the constituency were not only coordinated but also impactful, leading to the Governor’s resounding victory in both the primaries and the general election.
One of the most remarkable moments of Hon. Kolawole’s political ingenuity came in September 2024 when the Immaculate Youths of Oka in Akoko South West Local Government defected en masse from the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This mass defection, driven by Hon. Kolawole’s unique leadership and grassroots appeal, significantly weakened the opposition in the area, solidifying Governor Aiyedatiwa’s support base.
Hon. Kolawole Babatunde’s resourcefulness, commitment, and grassroots engagement underscore his pivotal role in Governor Aiyedatiwa’s re-election success. Beyond the campaign, his efforts have cemented his reputation as a visionary leader who understands the power of people-centric politics. Through strategic mobilization, effective leadership, and a deep connection to the grassroots, Hon. Kolawole not only secured victory for Governor Aiyedatiwa but also set a benchmark for political excellence in Ondo State.
As Ondo State looks forward to another term of progressive governance under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, it is leaders like Hon. Kolawole Babatunde who remind us of the importance of dedication, strategy, and grassroots connection in shaping a brighter future for all.
