Philanthropist and ADC stalwart, Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, speaks on his commitment to service, empowerment, and unity in Ajeromi-IfelodunFor philanthropist and community leader Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, known across Lagos as OmoBarca, politics is not a means to personal wealth but a platform to serve humanity. In this exclusive interview, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) stalwart discusses his record of empowering widows and youths, promoting religious harmony, and his vision for a united and prosperous Ajeromi-Ifelodun.
“My love for people is what drives everything I do. I was helping long before politics . Politics only gives me a wider platform to do more.”
Championing Widows and the Less Privileged
OmoBarca’s humanitarian work began long before he joined politics. Known for his consistent support for widows and the less privileged, he says helping others is his calling.
“Some people want to set up their own businesses but lack the funds, and God has used me to help some of them,” he said.
“The widows especially need help, and God is the husband of the widows. I do more charity work for them than for the youth. I give them food regularly and financial support to grow their businesses. The widows know that OmoBarca takes good care of them — you can ask them to confirm.”
A Political Journey Rooted in Faith
Speaking about his political path, OmoBarca said joining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was a divine direction.
“I am in ADC now because that is where God has directed me to be,” he stated.
“Our prayer is to be among those who will repair this country. Whatever God gives us the power to do, we will do it well.”
He added that his track record of youth empowerment will continue if given the opportunity to serve officially.
“I have done a lot for the youth, and if elected, I will do even more — and do it well,” he said.
Service to Ajeromi-Ifelodun
OmoBarca insists that his work for the people of Ajeromi-Ifelodun predates his political ambition.
“The things I have done for my people were not because of politics. My love for people is what drives everything I do,” he explained.
“Now that I am in politics, it is an opportunity to do more. When I call the people to come out and vote, they respond because they know my record. That’s why my name is well known — OmoBarca.”
“If they ask who has done the most for Ajeromi-Ifelodun, I should be number one — not because I am proud, but because I have served faithfully.”
Inspiring the Youth
Beyond philanthropy, OmoBarca sees youth empowerment as the foundation of community development.
“I always tell the youth that if they don’t work, they won’t eat. They must be willing to work hard,” he said.
“There is nothing God cannot do, and He never forgets those who work diligently. I have been working, and so have they, and I believe God will remember Ifelodun.”
Preaching Unity Across Tribes and Faiths
Known for his inclusive style, OmoBarca says he does not believe in tribal or religious politics.
“I am not a tribalistic person. I bring everyone together — Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba — as long as you are a Nigerian,” he said.
“My politics is for the masses. Many people think all politicians are liars, but that’s not true. I have been serving people long before politics, and I continue to do so with humility.”
A Calling, Not a Career
When asked why he joined politics, OmoBarca said it was simply an extension of his humanitarian work.
“I joined politics to have a bigger platform to do what I’ve always done — serve people. I don’t want the youth and children of Ajeromi-Ifelodun to suffer what we suffered,” he said.
“I am not in politics for selfish reasons. Some politicians come into it for their own gain, but I am in it to serve.”
“Politics is not for selfish gain. It is a tool for service. I am in it because of my people.”
Overcoming Opposition
OmoBarca has faced resistance from political rivals, but he says his focus remains on service.
“I have faced opposition since joining this race, mostly from people who don’t like the good I’m doing,” he recounted.
“One serious incident had to be resolved by our leader, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. They tried to paint my name black because of their selfish interests, but God has been faithful. The same people who fought me know the good I’m doing.”
Promoting Religious Harmony
OmoBarca is well known for his generous support of all religious communities.
“I celebrate every religion — Islam, Christianity, and traditional faiths. I support all and do what God gives me the power to do,” he explained.
“During Ramadan, I slaughter one cow each day for 30 days so people can eat. From 2015 to 2023, I’ve sponsored between eight and seventeen people each year to Hajj — even when I was dragged to court, I still sponsored 17 pilgrims.”
He also supports Christian communities with food, donations, and sponsorship of church programmes.
“For Christians, I give out numerous bags of rice and support church programs. I also do things for traditional rulers and Obas quietly because I believe in unity and respect,” he said.
Empowering Traders and Supporting Health Initiatives
OmoBarca’s philanthropy extends to the health and business sectors.
“In the health sector, I’ve done a lot. There was a woman who lost her baby and was detained in the hospital because she couldn’t pay her bill — I paid it,” he said.
“For market people, I have empowered traders in Boundary Market — pepper sellers, palm oil sellers, and others. I’ve also helped with signage and billboards in the markets. I visit them personally because I believe in connecting with the people directly.”
A Final Message to the People
As the 2027 elections approach, OmoBarca urges residents of Ajeromi-Ifelodun to take their civic responsibility seriously.
“I am pleading with my people to go and get their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) — everyone from 18 years and above — because their votes count,” he said.
“I can never deny my people. If they vote for me, I will not disappoint them. I am doing politics to help the masses. I love my people, and by God’s grace, we will continue to build Ajeromi-Ifelodun together.”
