Lagos State has commenced its long-anticipated local government election, with officials of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) arriving early at polling units on Saturday morning.
At Polling Unit 008, Ward F, Iyalla, Ikeja, LASIEC officials were seen setting up election materials as of 7:59 a.m., signalling the official kickoff of the voting exercise across the state’s 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
However, the election is unfolding under a cloud of uncertainty and criticism, particularly from civil society organisations that have questioned both the legality and preparedness of the process.
On Friday, Enough is Enough Nigeria (EiE), a civic advocacy group with over 15 years of promoting democratic accountability, expressed deep concern about the transparency and credibility of the election.
In a statement issued Thursday, EiE questioned LASIEC’s ability to conduct a free and fair election.
The group accused the commission of failing to adequately inform and prepare voters, despite public assurances by LASIEC Chairman, Omobolanle Okikiolu-Ighile, that comprehensive voter education had been conducted.
EiE further stated that it has no confidence in LASIEC’s capacity to deliver a free, fair, and credible poll.
Adding to the controversy, LASIEC only released its long-awaited “validated” list of candidates for chairmanship and councillorship positions on Thursday—just two days before the polls—raising additional concerns about transparency and preparedness.
Security measures have also been updated in anticipation of the election.
Initially, the Lagos State Police Command had announced restrictions on vehicular and waterway movements from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. However, in a revised statement issued Thursday, police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said the restriction would now begin at 6 a.m., easing the burden on early commuters.
As voting gets underway, residents, election observers, and civil society groups remain on high alert—closely watching for signs of logistical breakdowns, voter apathy, and potential credibility issues in the overall process.
