By Abdul Razack Gbla
The GDO Field in Grafton was set ablaze with excitement on Saturday, May 11, as the grand finale of the Inter-Ward Football Gala thundered to a close in an electrifying atmosphere of cheers, music, and community spirit. But beyond the goals and glory on the pitch, one man stole the spotlight—Ady Macualey.
The highly anticipated football final, organized by the All People’s Congress (APC) Constituency 112 Executive Committee, attracted hundreds of enthusiastic spectators and an impressive line-up of party dignitaries. Among them were the Constituency 112 Chairman, both ward councillors, the APC Publicity Secretary, and the Western Area Rural District Chairman. But it was the presence of leading APC flagbearer aspirant Ady Macualey that turned heads and stirred excitement throughout the event.
Macualey, a prominent legal practitioner and respected figure in national politics, was notably the only declared aspirant to personally attend the gala final. His appearance sent a clear message of commitment—not just to the party—but to grassroots engagement and youth empowerment.
“This is not just about football; it’s about building the next generation and investing in unity across our wards,” Macualey remarked in a brief address to the crowd. “When young people are given the platform to showcase their talents and strength, they are reminded that their future matters.”
His remarks were met with loud applause from the crowd, which included party stakeholders such as the APC Secretary General and other regional party officials. Many saw his presence as a bold demonstration of leadership and accessibility—qualities the party’s grassroots supporters have been yearning for as the 2025 elections approach.

The final match itself did not disappoint, delivering thrilling moments and solidifying the Inter-Ward Gala as more than just a competition. It served as a celebration of community pride, political awareness, and the unifying power of sport.
Organizers hailed the event as a resounding success. “This is what we stand for—building bridges across our communities through positive engagement,” said one of the ward councillors. “And having someone like Ady Macualey here with us today gives our efforts even greater meaning.”
When the crowd slowly dispersed under the Grafton twilight, conversations continued—not just about who lifted the trophy, but about who showed up when it mattered most. And on that count, Ady Macualey emerged as the quiet victor of the evening.