As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum, the House of Representatives candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) for Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, is positioning himself as a grassroots politician determined to bring people-oriented representation to one of Lagos State’s most populous constituencies.
Widely known across the Ajeromi-Ifelodun axis for his community engagement and philanthropic activities, OmoBarca’s supporters believe his personal story and long-standing relationship with the people distinguish him from many career politicians seeking elective office.
Born and raised in Ajegunle, the bustling community often regarded as Nigeria’s most famous urban ghetto, OmoBarca spent his formative years among the people whose daily struggles have shaped the identity of the constituency. His campaign argues that growing up in the area has given him firsthand knowledge of the economic, educational and infrastructural challenges confronting residents.
According to members of the NDC campaign team, OmoBarca’s background makes him uniquely positioned to understand the aspirations of ordinary traders, artisans, transport workers, market women, youths and small business owners who form the backbone of Ajeromi-Ifelodun.
For many residents, the constituency has enormous human potential but continues to grapple with poverty, unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, poor healthcare services and limited economic opportunities despite its strategic importance to Lagos State.
Supporters of the NDC candidate say these realities require a representative who has lived through the experiences of the people rather than one who merely understands them from a distance.
Throughout the years, OmoBarca has reportedly maintained close ties with residents of the constituency through various humanitarian interventions and community support initiatives. His admirers describe him as a philanthropist who has consistently extended assistance to vulnerable individuals and families, particularly young people seeking educational and economic opportunities.
According to his supporters, his approach to politics is rooted in service, accessibility and accountability rather than political rhetoric. They argue that his leadership philosophy is built on the belief that public office should serve as a platform for improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
As the NDC standard-bearer, OmoBarca has pledged to pursue people-centred legislation if elected into the House of Representatives. His campaign says his legislative agenda will focus on expanding employment opportunities, improving education, strengthening healthcare delivery, promoting youth empowerment and supporting policies that stimulate economic development within Ajeromi-Ifelodun.
His supporters also believe he will use the legislative platform to advocate for greater federal presence in the constituency through improved infrastructure, skills acquisition programmes, social welfare initiatives and investments capable of transforming the local economy.
They argue that effective representation goes beyond sponsoring bills, noting that a member of the House of Representatives must also ensure effective oversight of government agencies, facilitate constituency projects and serve as a strong voice for the people at the National Assembly.
According to the campaign, OmoBarca intends to champion legislation that directly addresses the welfare of low-income families, enhances access to quality education, improves healthcare services and creates opportunities for entrepreneurship among young people.
The campaign further maintains that his understanding of the socioeconomic realities facing residents will enable him to effectively articulate their concerns during legislative debates and policy discussions.
Political observers note that Ajeromi-Ifelodun remains one of Nigeria’s most politically significant constituencies because of its large voting population, vibrant commercial activities and youthful demographic profile. Consequently, candidates are expected to present clear policy alternatives capable of addressing longstanding developmental challenges.
For OmoBarca and the NDC, the campaign is being framed as an opportunity to redefine representation by placing greater emphasis on community engagement, responsiveness and inclusive governance.
Supporters believe that his familiarity with the everyday realities of Ajegunle and the wider Ajeromi-Ifelodun constituency provides him with practical insight into the needs of residents and the interventions required to improve their standard of living.
They say his aspiration is driven by a commitment to ensure that the voices of the ordinary people are adequately represented in the National Assembly and that federal policies deliver measurable benefits to the constituency.
As the election season approaches, the NDC has intensified its mobilisation efforts across communities within Ajeromi-Ifelodun, encouraging eligible voters to participate actively in the democratic process.
The party is urging residents to evaluate candidates based on their track record, accessibility, understanding of local challenges and capacity to deliver effective representation.
With campaigns expected to intensify in the coming months, OmoBarca’s supporters remain optimistic that his grassroots appeal, community engagement and legislative vision will resonate with voters seeking a representative whom they believe understands their struggles and shares their aspirations.
The NDC has therefore called on the electorate in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency to prepare for the 2027 elections and support Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, expressing confidence that his election would usher in a new era of responsive leadership and people-focused representation.
