By Maduabum Obinna Francis
Massive turnout of Labour Party members and traditional rulers in Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State shows a good omen for the forthcoming local government election for the Party in Lagos State.
Hosted by Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, the well attended general assembly was held at its LGA Secretariat located at 13 Odofin Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos. The mammoth crowd in attendance made it to be described as a major show of strength and grassroots mobilization ahead of the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for July 12, 2025.
The gathering witnessed a massive turnout of party members, leaders, supporters, and key community stakeholders, including six traditional chiefs (Baales), in a demonstration of growing public support and renewed party momentum in the Apapa region of Lagos State.
In a significant boost to the party’s grassroots appeal, six esteemed Baales attended the event, underscoring traditional institutional backing for the Labour Party’s local agenda. Present at the assembly were Chief Akeem Oseni Bale Amukoko, Chief Abdulateef Ojora Bale Alaba, Chief Jide Ojora Bale Alafia, Bale Taiwo Okere, Bale Balogun Abukekere and Bale Idris Ojora.
Their presence was warmly acknowledged by the crowd, as they received special commendation for aligning with the Party’s community focused platform and development goals.
The assembly opened with prayers, followed by the rendition of the national and Labour Party anthems, setting a solemn yet determined tone for the proceedings. In his opening address, the Party Chairman welcomed members and emphasized the significance of the gathering as a morale booster and rallying point ahead of the elections. He called on all party members to stay committed to the cause, noting that six Labour Party candidates are set to contest councillorship positions in the upcoming polls.
Chairman of the Labour Party in the Local Government Area, Hon. Charles Chidiebere Ejimadu spoke on the urgent need for effective campaign strategies and community engagement to ensure victory at the grassroots.
High point of the assembly was the address delivered by Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, whose speech electrified the audience. Speaking with passion and conviction, OmoBarca encouraged the councillorship candidates to remain optimistic and focused, declaring that electoral success is within reach.
In a strong show of support, he pledged to fully cover the cost of agent fees for all the six candidates during the election. This announcement was met with resounding applause and chants of solidarity from attendees. He further called on all executive members to intensify grassroots mobilization and expand party membership in the run up to the elections.
OmoBarca also expressed appreciation to the visiting Baales for their consistent backing of the OMOBARCA Movement and their contributions to community development and prayed for their safety and long life.
In a symbolic and spirited ceremony, each of the six councillorship candidates was presented with the official Labour Party flag, handed over personally by Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima. The flag presentation marked the formal launch of their campaign efforts across their respective wards.
The event transitioned into a celebration with music, dancing, and enthusiastic displays of party unity. Attendees were served refreshments, including food, water, and soft drinks, in an atmosphere that blended festivity with political determination.
In a gesture of empowerment and inclusiveness, every member in attendance received a transportation token of ₦3,000, also provided by Hon. Francis Chima. This gesture reaffirmed his commitment to supporting and uplifting the party’s base.
The general assembly concluded on an energetic note, with party members expressing confidence in the Labour Party’s prospects at the July 12 elections. With visible community support, active traditional leadership engagement, and strong grassroots organization, the party appears poised for a robust performance at the polls.
Maduabum is the LGA Publicity Secretary Media/Publicity Director, Team OmoBarca
