Voting Commences Amid Delays in Ifako-Ijaiye as Lagos Decides at the Local Level
Voters in Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area of Lagos State gathered early this morning to participate in the ongoing Lagos local government chairmanship and councillorship elections. However, the start of voting was hampered by the late arrival of officials from the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC).
Despite an early turnout at several polling stations as early as 8:00 a.m., voters were left waiting due to the absence of electoral officers to commence the accreditation and ballot casting process. At the polling centre designated for the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship hopeful, Usman Hamzat, residents remained patient but anxious, concerned that the delayed start might impact the smooth running of the day’s elections.
Smooth Voting Begins at Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Lagos Island Polling Unit
In contrast to the situation in Ifako-Ijaiye, voting began smoothly and on time at Polling Unit 007, located within St. Stephen’s Nursery and Primary School, Adeniji Adele, on Lagos Island. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is expected to vote here in today’s grassroots elections.
Officials from LASIEC arrived punctually, initiating the voting process at the scheduled time of 8:00 a.m. Among the early voters was Jubril Gawat, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor, who also cast his vote at the same location.
A strong security presence, including police personnel, was observed at the venue to ensure calm and order throughout the exercise. The polls aim to fill the chairmanship and councillorship positions across all 20 constitutionally recognized LGAs and 37 LCDAs in Lagos State.
Amuwo-Odofin and Ikeja: Early Material Distribution in Progress
In the Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, LASIEC officials began distributing election materials early this morning at the local government secretariat. These materials are being dispatched to the 14 LCDAs that fall under Amuwo-Odofin and Oriade jurisdictions. Reports indicate that distribution has been seamless so far, with no disruptions, delays, or misplacement of election materials recorded.
In Ikeja Local Government, preparations also went smoothly. Our correspondents observed officials dispatching materials from the local council secretariat to polling centres ahead of the scheduled voting commencement. Security personnel have also been deployed to major polling units in Ikeja, ensuring voter safety and electoral integrity.
Lagos Local Government Elections Hold Today, July 12, 2025
Everything is set for the Lagos State local government elections holding today, Saturday, July 12, 2025. From the mainland districts to the bustling islands, voters, political stakeholders, and election observers await what is widely seen as a quiet but politically significant test for the state.
The final list of approved candidates contesting in the elections was released by LASIEC, featuring aspirants for both chairmanship and councillorship across 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs. With 13,325 polling units across Lagos, voting is expected to begin at 8:00 a.m. sharp, with election materials and security personnel already deployed.
Political Stakes High as APC Looks to Reaffirm Dominance Amid Rising LP Influence
Although local government elections in Nigeria typically suffer from low voter turnout and limited national attention, today’s poll in Lagos carries greater weight. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which has controlled Lagos since 1999, sees the election as a chance to reassert dominance at the grassroots, particularly after the Labour Party (LP) made significant gains in the 2023 general elections.
The LP surprised many by winning several polling units in key LGAs like Amuwo-Odofin, Eti-Osa, and Surulere, and now aims to solidify its local presence. While LP candidates have shown some campaign momentum, their visibility remains inconsistent across the state. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), once the main opposition in Lagos, has been relatively silent during the election buildup, reflective of its internal instability and dwindling public support.
Concerns Raised Over LASIEC Preparedness, Opposition Intimidation
In the lead-up to the elections, several civil society organisations and opposition figures have questioned the preparedness of LASIEC. A significant point of concern was the delayed release of the official candidate list, which came out only four days before election day, on July 8, 2025.
Opposition members, particularly from the LP, have also alleged acts of intimidation, destruction of campaign posters, and possible bias in certain local councils. One LP candidate in Amuwo-Odofin claimed there were plans to disrupt the vote and called on LASIEC and security forces to intervene proactively.
Despite the concerns, LASIEC Chairperson, Justice Ayotunde Phillips (rtd.), has assured voters that the commission is fully prepared to conduct a free, fair, and credible election. Special provisions have been made for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
Governor Sanwo-Olu and Security Agencies Urge Massive Turnout
Governor Sanwo-Olu has encouraged Lagos residents to come out in large numbers to vote, emphasizing that local governments are the most immediate layer of governance responsible for essential services and community development.
The Lagos State Police Command and other security agencies have echoed this call, reassuring the public of maximum security across all polling stations. Officers are being stationed strategically to ensure peace and prevent electoral violence or voter intimidation.
Although not as prominent as national elections, local council polls are pivotal. They determine the management of local budgets, roads, schools, sanitation, and community markets, and serve as the grassroots mobilization base for political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Stay connected with LMSINT MEDIA for real-time updates and on-the-ground reports from every LGA and LCDA across Lagos.
Kindly Share:
Discover more from LMSINT STORE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
