In furtherance of grassroots mobilization and strategic stakeholder engagement ahead of the July 2025 local government elections, the Independent Campaign Group (ICG) in Somolu Local Government Area has formally presented the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairmanship, Vice Chairmanship and counillorship candidates to religious leaders in the community.
The presentation, which took place on Thursday at a gathering of the Baales, Traditional worshippers and Christians group within the council area, witnessed the introduction of Hon. AbdulLateef Ashimi as the APC Chairmanship flag bearer, Hon. Taiwo Ojomu as his running mate not leaving out the councillors.
The event marked a key moment in the build-up to the polls as the ICG intensified its outreach to religious stakeholders, who remain influential voices in shaping public opinion across Somolu.
In his remarks, the ICG Chairman, Hon. Williams Bamidele Lawanson (Oosha), said the visit was aimed at seeking the blessings and moral support of spiritual leaders as the campaign trail moves closer to the grassroots. He emphasized the critical role faith-based institutions play in promoting peace, voter education, and community development.
“This meeting is not just political; it is spiritual. We are here to acknowledge the importance of our religious leaders and to ask for their prayers for a peaceful election and divine guidance for our candidates,” Williams said.
Speaking shortly after the event, the APC flag bearers, Hon. AbdulLateef Ashimi expressed his gratitude to the religious leaders for opening their doors to the campaign team. He reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance, promising to carry every stakeholder along when elected.
“We recognize the immense contributions of our religious institutions in building a sane and morally upright society. That is why we are here to present ourselves to you — not just as candidates, but as servants who are ready to lead with the fear of God,” Ashimi declared.
His running mate, Hon. Taiwo Ojomu, echoed similar sentiments, assuring that their administration would work closely with religious bodies to address social vices, youth restiveness, and poverty in the community.
Also speaking at the event, Rev. Dr. Gabriel Odu of the Christ Light Apostolic Mission, both prayed for the success of the APC candidates and urged them to uphold their promises if elected.
“We will continue to support peace and unity in Somolu, and we expect that whoever emerges as chairman will make the people’s welfare their utmost priority,” said Rev. Odu.
The event was attended by several ward leaders, ICG coordinators, and community influencers who pledged their readiness to work towards the party’s victory at the polls.
While campaign momentum continues to build across Lagos State, the strategic outreach by the ICG underscores the APC’s determination to strengthen its grassroots connection and reaffirm its presence in key political strongholds such as Somolu.