By Ayomide Otitoju
The Labour Party staged a major show of force in Ajeromi-Ifelodun on Saturday, hosting a well-attended general assembly at its LGA secretariat, located at 13 Odofin Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos, ahead of the forthcoming local government elections scheduled for July 12, 2025.
The event drew a large crowd of party members, executives, supporters, and grassroots mobilizers, underscoring the party’s growing popularity and renewed momentum in the Apapa axis.
Traditional Leaders Endorse Labour Party
In a significant endorsement of the party’s grassroots credentials, six respected traditional rulers (Baales) graced the assembly, lending traditional legitimacy and community support to the Labour Party’s local agenda.
Among the dignitaries present were:
Chief Akeem Oseni, Baale of Amukoko
Chief Abdulateef Ojora, Baale of Alaba
Chief Jide Ojora, Baale of Alafia
Baale Taiwo Okere
Baale Balogun Abukekere
Baale Idris Ojora
The royal fathers were received with resounding cheers as party leaders lauded their commitment to community development and their alignment with the Labour Party’s people-first ideology.
OmoBarca Rallies Support, Pledges Logistics Funding
Highlight of the event was a rousing address by Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, who electrified the gathering with a passionate speech urging unity and resilience among party members.
OmoBarca reaffirmed his support for all six councillorship candidates under the Labour Party banner and announced that he would cover the cost of polling agent fees for each candidate—an announcement that drew loud applause and chants of solidarity.
He further charged party executives to redouble grassroots mobilization efforts and expand the party’s reach in the weeks leading up to the elections.
“I urge all of you to believe in our mission. The people are with us. Victory is not just possible—it is within our grasp,” he declared.
OmoBarca also extended heartfelt appreciation to the visiting Baales for their continued backing of the OMOBARCA Movement, praying for their longevity and wellbeing.
Official Campaign Launch
In a symbolic gesture, each of the six councillorship candidates received the official Labour Party flag from Hon. Francis Chima, signifying the formal commencement of their ward-level campaigns.
The atmosphere turned celebratory as music, dancing, and chants of party slogans filled the air. Attendees were treated to food, drinks, and other refreshments in a carnival-like setting that blended political purpose with community festivity.
Commitment to Grassroots Empowerment
As part of his grassroots empowerment drive, OmoBarca provided ₦3,000 in transport support to every attendee, reinforcing his commitment to an inclusive and people-driven political movement.
Looking Ahead to July 12
The assembly concluded with renewed optimism, as party members expressed confidence in Labour’s prospects at the upcoming polls. With broad-based community support, backing from traditional institutions, and visible organizational strength, the Labour Party appears well-positioned for a strong showing in Ajeromi-Ifelodun.
