Ona-Ara 2027: Meet Hon. Temitope Afolabi*

As the political atmosphere in Oyo State gradually warms ahead of the next electoral cycle, a distinguished son of the soil, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Temitope Ademola Afolabi, has emerged with clarity of purpose, credibility of character, and a burning passion to serve the people of Ona Ara State Constituency in Oyo State House of Assembly under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Born on May 15, 1971, to the family of Mr. Salami Afolabi of Olofa Village and Mrs. Okunlola Afolabi of Ajia, both in Ward 8 of Ona Ara Local Government Area, Dr. Afolabi’s life story is deeply rooted in the values, struggles, and aspirations of the people he now seeks to represent.

His journey is a testament to hard work, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

SOLID EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
Dr. Afolabi’s academic journey began at Canon Okusehinde Memorial Primary School, Aremo, Ibadan (1978–1984), where his brilliance and leadership traits were evident early.

He proceeded to the renowned Lagelu Grammar School, where he completed his secondary education between 1984 and 1989, leaving behind a legacy of discipline and academic distinction.

Determined to rise through merit, he gained admission into Nigeria’s Premier University, the University of Ibadan, where he studied Veterinary Medicine. In 1999, he proudly graduated with the prestigious Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, joining the ranks of highly trained professionals shaping Nigeria’s agricultural and food security sector.

DISTINGUISHED PROFESSIONAL CAREER
Dr. Temitope Afolabi began his professional career during his NYSC service at the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Osun State, in 1999. He thereafter worked with Lipakala Farms, Ondo State, as a Farm Veterinary Officer in 2000.

His corporate career took a defining leap in 2002 when he joined UAC of Nigeria Plc, one of Nigeria’s foremost conglomerates. Through diligence and excellence, he rose to the position of Full Manager in 2012. His assignments across Quality Assurance, Sales, and Marketing took him across the length and breadth of Nigeria, enriching him with national exposure, strategic thinking, and people management skills.

In 2017, he joined the Olam Group, further strengthening his expertise in agribusiness and food production. He currently serves with Karma Agric Feeds and Foods Limited, where he continues to contribute to Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.

A LIFE OF SERVICE AND LEADERSHIP
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Afolabi is widely respected as a community abuilder and bridge-maker. His leadership footprints are visible across educational, professional, and social platforms.

He served as National Chief Whip of the Lagelu Grammar School Old Boys Association (2017–2019) and later as Chairman of the 1984/89 Set (2019–2023). He is currently the President of the University of Ibadan Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Class of 1998/99, and also the President of Mr Biggs Ondo/Ekiti Family, reflecting his capacity to lead diverse interests with unity and purpose.

COMPASSIONATE HEART, ROYAL RECOGNITION
Driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility to humanity, Dr. Afolabi founded the Harvest of Hope Charity Foundation, an NGO committed to supporting widows, senior citizens, youths, and community development initiatives across communities.

In recognition of his selfless service and humanitarian contributions, he was installed as the Balogun Gbobaniyi of Ajia Land, Ibadan, by His Royal Highness, the Alajia of Ajia Land—a title that symbolizes trust, honor, and grassroots acceptance.

A FAMILY MAN WITH A CLEAR VISION
Hon. Chief (Dr.) Temitope Ademola Afolabi is happily married and blessed with wonderful children. With a blend of professional excellence, grassroots connection, tested leadership, and PDP loyalty, he represents a new wave of competence-driven representation for Ona Ara.

As he aspires to represent Ona Ara State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly, many stakeholders see in him a man prepared by life, refined by experience, and motivated by service—a worthy son ready to give back to the land that raised him.

Ona Ara deserves capacity.
Ona Ara deserves compassion.
Ona Ara deserves Hon. Temitope Ademola Afolabi.