As Lagos 
Joyce Mmereole Okoli
As Lagos State gears up for local government elections, political activities have reached a fever pitch with alignments and realignments shaping the contest. In the Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, a groundswell of support is building behind one candidate: the incumbent Vice Chairman, Hon. Chika Maureen Ashara.
Hon. Ashara, who currently holds the Vice Chairmanship seat, has emerged as a consensus choice for re-election, with at least five prominent community and political groups publicly endorsing her candidacy under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The APC, which holds power both at the state and federal levels, is currently conducting its primary elections ahead of the main polls.
Among the groups backing Ashara is the Igbo Stakeholders United Forum, which praised her loyalty, vision, and commitment to progressive ideals. In a letter signed by the Forum’s National President Prince Nixon Ndubuisi Okwara and National Secretary Daniel Ezeanochie, the group stated, “Her emergence will not only strengthen the APC’s grassroots appeal in Amuwo-Odofin but also solidify the party’s support base within the vibrant and influential Igbo community in Lagos.”
Similarly, the Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Amuwo Odofin Chapter threw its weight behind Ashara in a letter to the APC, calling for her return to office. The letter, signed by Chairman Chief Chikwado Lawrence Ezenaura and Secretary Mr. Ugooma Martin, described the endorsement as “formal and wholehearted.”
The Ndi Igbo in APC, Amuwo Odofin, also offered their endorsement, describing Ashara as “a bridge-builder” and “a strong advocate for all residents, regardless of ethnic background.” The group emphasized her capacity for equitable governance and dedication to party ideals.
Religious leaders have also voiced their support. The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Joseph’s Palace Parish, where Ashara worships, commended her integrity and service. Parish Pastor Onyinye Odiaka wrote, “She has consistently demonstrated qualities of leadership, humility, and godliness.”
From the business community, the Ndigboamaka Progressive Markets Association, an umbrella body of Igbo market associations, also backed Ashara’s candidacy. Its national president, Hon. Chinedu Ukatu, highlighted her effective representation of the Igbo community and her role in promoting the APC’s manifesto.
Each of these endorsements points to Ashara’s widespread acceptance across political, ethnic, and religious lines. Supporters argue that her re-election would reinforce inclusivity, continuity, and deeper integration between the party and the diverse communities in Amuwo Odofin.
As the APC primaries proceed, pressure is mounting on the party leadership to acknowledge the groundswell of grassroots support in favor of Hon. Ashara. Backers believe that her candidacy represents both political prudence and a reward for consistent performance and party loyalty.