The House of Representatives candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, has received a large number of defectors from various political parties into the NDC, assuring them of fairness, inclusion and quality representation if elected in the 2027 general election.
The defection ceremony, held in Ajegunle, Lagos, attracted party supporters, community leaders, youths, women groups and political stakeholders from different wards of the constituency.
Speaking during the event, OmoBarca described the decision of the new members to join the NDC as a clear indication that many residents of Ajeromi-Ifelodun are seeking a new political direction anchored on service, accountability and people-oriented leadership.
He thanked the defectors for their confidence in the party and assured them that they would enjoy equal rights and opportunities within the NDC.
“I warmly welcome our brothers and sisters who have chosen to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress today. Your decision is not just a movement from one party to another; it is a movement towards a shared vision of progress, justice and development for Ajeromi-Ifelodun,” OmoBarca said.
He stressed that the NDC remains open to all residents regardless of their previous political affiliations and pledged that no member would be discriminated against.
“Everyone who joins this movement will be treated with dignity and respect. We believe in internal democracy, fairness and equal opportunity. I assure all our new members that there will be a level playing field for everyone in the party,” he added.
The NDC candidate further stated that the growing number of defectors reflects increasing public support for the party’s agenda ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to him, the people of Ajeromi-Ifelodun deserve a representative who is accessible, responsive and genuinely committed to addressing the challenges facing the constituency.
“If I emerge victorious in the 2027 House of Representatives election, I will provide quality representation that prioritises the welfare of our people. My focus will be on youth empowerment, education, healthcare, infrastructure, security and economic opportunities for our traders, artisans and small business owners,” he said.
OmoBarca emphasised that his ambition is driven by a desire to serve the people and attract meaningful development projects to the constituency.
He urged the new members to become active participants in the party’s activities and to help spread the message of good governance across their communities.
During the ceremony, the defectors expressed satisfaction with the reception accorded them by the NDC leadership.
Several of them said they decided to leave their former parties because of what they described as lack of internal democracy, poor leadership and inadequate attention to grassroots development.
They commended OmoBarca for his grassroots engagement and his commitment to inclusive politics, adding that they were confident the NDC would provide a better platform for political participation and community development.
The event featured the formal presentation of party materials to the new members, entertainment by local performers and interactions between party leaders and supporters.
Organisers said the defectors were well taken care of throughout the programme, with refreshments and welfare arrangements provided for attendees.
Party leaders present at the event described the defection as a major boost for the NDC in Ajeromi-Ifelodun and expressed confidence that the party would continue to attract more supporters in the coming months.
They also called on residents of the constituency to support leaders who are committed to transparency, accountability and grassroots development.
The ceremony ended with prayers for peace, unity and progress in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency and across Lagos State.
With political activities gradually gathering momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, observers say the latest wave of defections may further strengthen the NDC’s presence in the constituency and intensify political competition in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency.
