By Chinedu Anolue

The Lagos Grassroots Alliance (LGA) has commenced mobilisation of Nigerians in the United Kingdom ahead of the 2027 general elections, following the inauguration of its diaspora chapter in Milton Keynes.

The convener of the alliance, Owolabi Falana, told newsmen in Abuja, that the initiative was aimed at strengthening political engagement between Lagos State and Nigerians living abroad.

He said the event was also to mobilise supporters for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

Falana said the inauguration brought together political leaders, party stakeholders and members of the Nigerian community to discuss electoral participation and strategies for expanding the alliance’s grassroots presence.

He said the gathering also provided an opportunity to examine Lagos electoral trends and identify stakeholders whose involvement could strengthen political organisation across communities.

According to him, the analysis drew from electoral data dating back to 2003, providing insights into changes in party performance and possible approaches to future mobilisation.

Falana stressed that effective grassroots engagement required proper planning, coordination and sustained interaction with communities, adding that electoral analysis needed to translate into practical political action.

The event featured the inauguration of the chapter’s Executive Council by Hon. Babatunde Doherty, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) UK Chapter.

Adedamola Oladini-Cole emerged as Diaspora Coordinator, while Hon. Sunkanmi Onafowokan was named Deputy Coordinator.

Other members are Olarewaju Toheeb Lawal; Oluwaseyi Arewa, Secretary; Omolola  Okuyiga, Publicity Secretary; and Olanrewaju Akanbi, Technology Lead.

Falana said the council would coordinate activities, improve communication and strengthen engagement with stakeholders to advance the alliance’s objectives.

Among those present at the inauguration were Asipa Doyin Banjo, APC Lagos State Financial Secretary; Hon. Kappo Samuel; and Mr Duro Adeboye of the PBAT/KOH Campaign Council Education Directorate.

Falana said participants also declared support for President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid and Dr Obafemi Hamzat as the APC governorship candidate for Lagos State in 2027.

He added that discussions at the gathering covered diaspora participation in Nigerian elections, community development and maintaining stronger relationships between Nigerians abroad and their home communities.

The alliance subsequently extended its mobilisation activities to Birmingham, where Falana said Nigerians from England and Scotland participated in a follow-up engagement.

He said participants at the Birmingham meeting reiterated their support for Tinubu and Hamzat, while emphasising the importance of diaspora involvement and grassroots political participation ahead of the 2027 elections. (NAN)

Edited by Isaac Aregbesola