Super Falcons dynamic midfielder, Jennifer Echegini, has confidently declared that the Nigerian women’s national football team is fully prepared to conquer any opponent standing in their way as they chase glory at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The formidable team led by coach Justine Madugu has displayed remarkable form in the competition, securing emphatic victories in their opening fixtures against Tunisia and Botswana. These consecutive wins have solidified their position, granting the Super Falcons a direct entry into the quarter-finals of the prestigious continental championship. As the nine-time WAFCON champions, the Super Falcons of Nigeria are determined to maintain their dominance in African women’s football. Their impressive start has heightened expectations, with many fans eager to see if the Nigerian side can secure their tenth title. Looking ahead, Nigeria is bracing for potential encounters with the tournament hosts, the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco, or the highly competitive Copper Queens of Zambia in the last eight stage. Despite the challenging prospects, coach Madugu has assured that his squad remains unshaken and fully committed to taking on any rival they face in their quest for the championship. Before setting sights on the quarter-finals, the Super Falcons will lock horns with Algeria in their final group stage match, scheduled for Sunday (today). Echegini, who plies her trade with Paris Saint-Germain, emphasized the team’s focused mindset during a press briefing in Casablanca, Morocco. “At the moment, all our attention is on Algeria. Once that game is behind us, we’ll strategize for whoever comes next. Honestly, it doesn’t matter who our next opponent will be — we’re prepared for anyone,” Echegini assured. In the other group fixture, Tunisia will battle against Botswana, a clash that could potentially shape the final standings in the group. For Nigerian football enthusiasts and WAFCON followers, all eyes remain on the Super Falcons as they aim to extend their legacy on the African stage.
Lionel Messi, the iconic Inter Miami CF captain, continues to dominate Major League Soccer (MLS) history books by scoring his fifth consecutive brace, as his side defeated Nashville SC 2-0 in a thrilling match on Saturday. This remarkable feat extends an existing MLS record, positioning Messi as a league standout and redefining goal-scoring consistency in American soccer. Just a week prior, the 38-year-old football legend etched his name into MLS history by becoming the first player ever to net multiple goals in four consecutive matches. With the latest performance against Nashville, Messi has now shattered his own record, pushing the bar even higher for future MLS stars. The Argentinian maestro was in sublime form throughout the game, securing goals in both halves to ensure a comfortable win for Inter Miami CF. Messi’s first breakthrough came at the 17th-minute mark, courtesy of a spectacular direct free-kick that left the opposing goalkeeper with no chance. This stunning effort marked the 69th direct free-kick goal of Messi’s illustrious career, further solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest set-piece specialists the game has ever seen. In the 62nd minute, Messi dazzled fans again by rounding Nashville SC’s goalkeeper with precision and calmly slotting the ball into the back of the net. This composed finish sealed the victory and extended his incredible scoring streak. With this brace, Messi now shares the top spot on the MLS top scorer chart alongside Nashville’s Sam Surridge, both boasting an impressive 16 goals each this season. The competition for the MLS Golden Boot has intensified, but Messi’s current form suggests he may soon claim that title outright. For soccer enthusiasts and analysts alike, Messi’s dominance in the MLS is not just a testament to his enduring talent at 38, but also a boost to the league’s global appeal. His consistent goal-scoring and record-breaking achievements are drawing more international attention to MLS, bolstering its reputation as a competitive and entertaining league.
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Sporting CP president, Frederico Varandas, has publicly addressed his frustration after Viktor Gyokeres failed to report for the club’s pre-season training, intensifying speculations surrounding the Swedish striker’s anticipated transfer to Arsenal. Gyokeres, who is keen on securing a high-profile move to the Premier League, notably to Arsenal, was absent from Sporting’s pre-season training session held on Saturday evening. His absence comes amidst ongoing negotiations between Sporting CP and Arsenal over a potential summer transfer deal. Reports indicate that Arsenal tabled an official offer of €65 million, complemented by an additional €15 million in performance-based incentives. However, Sporting CP remains firm, demanding €70 million upfront, alongside a further €10 million in bonuses to sanction the departure of their prolific forward. Reacting to the situation, Varandas, in a statement cited by reputable football journalist Fabrizio Romano, stated: “If they don’t want to pay Viktor’s fair market value, we are very comfortable with that for the next three years. This strategy is also making it more complicated for the player [Gyokeres] to leave. Nobody is above the interests of the club. Whoever they are.” Varandas emphasized that Sporting CP is under no pressure, expressing confidence that the matter will be settled well before the conclusion of the current summer transfer window. Additionally, the Sporting CP president hinted at disciplinary action against Gyokeres for his absence. He revealed that the club is considering imposing a substantial fine on the Swedish international. Furthermore, Gyokeres may be compelled to tender a formal apology to the club for his conduct. The Arsenal transfer saga surrounding Viktor Gyokeres continues to unfold, with fans keenly watching if the Gunners will meet Sporting’s financial demands or risk missing out on the striker before the window closes.
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Renowned Tanzanian-Nigerian music artist, Juma Jux, has opened up about the emotional and transformative process of helping his wife, Priscilla Ojo, embrace Islam ahead of their widely celebrated wedding ceremony. In a recent candid conversation with Afrikmedia, the talented singer recounted the hurdles he faced while guiding Priscilla Ojo, the daughter of popular Nigerian actress Iyabo Ojo, through the significant step of changing her religious beliefs. Jux acknowledged that his success in leading Priscilla to embrace Islam was largely due to the invaluable support and guidance he received from respected Islamic scholars and mentors. He emphasized the critical role these religious figures played by equipping him with the knowledge and strategies needed to patiently introduce his partner to the faith. He further highlighted the significance of adopting a gentle and understanding approach. According to Juma Jux, the scholars advised him against pushing Priscilla hastily into conversion. Instead, they encouraged him to engage her in deep, thoughtful conversations about Islam, allowing her to understand the religion at her own pace. Reflecting on the experience, Juma Jux revealed that it required substantial time and consistent effort to help Priscilla fully comprehend and accept the principles of the Islamic faith. In his own words, Juma Jux stated: “I was very clear about my wedding plans. I had envisioned everything, and fortunately, I found someone who shared the same aspirations with me. Convincing her wasn’t straightforward; it posed some challenges. However, I was learning from religious leaders and dedicated followers of Islam. They advised me on the right approach to help my wife join the faith. They suggested that I should be patient — teach her step by step, introduce her to the beliefs, and gradually share insights. It was a slow process, but in the end, she came to understand and embrace it.” It is important to note that LMSINT MEDIA previously reported the union between Juma Jux and Priscilla Ojo, who officially tied the knot in an elegant white wedding ceremony held in Lagos, Nigeria, on April 19, 2025.
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In a tragic development, a young woman from Benue State has been brutally murdered and her corpse dumped by the roadside in Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The victim’s lifeless body was discovered along Abubakar Street, located off Alex Ekwueme Street within the Jabi district of Abuja. Sources close to the deceased revealed that she hailed from Ekaida community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State. According to reports, the unfortunate incident occurred when the young woman encountered notorious “one chance” criminals while she was returning from work. These criminal gangs, commonly operating in Nigeria’s cities, are known for luring unsuspecting commuters, robbing, and sometimes killing them. A relative and community member, Adanu Andrew, confirmed the victim’s identity. He stated, “She was our daughter from Ekaida, Agatu Local Government. She boarded a vehicle while returning from work and, unfortunately, it was operated by one chance criminals.” Andrew further disclosed that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of one million naira from the family. However, while family members were in transit to negotiate her release, they stumbled upon a disturbing post circulating on Facebook that revealed her demise. He described the deceased as a well-disciplined and cultured young lady who was committed to earning a legitimate living. “She was genuinely hustling to make ends meet. Sadly, she became a victim of ruthless individuals driven by greed. May God grant her soul eternal peace and give her family the strength to bear this loss,” Andrew lamented. This heinous crime underscores the growing insecurity in Nigerian cities, particularly the FCT Abuja, where cases of “one chance” kidnappings and violent crimes are on the rise.
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A fresh chapter has opened in the ongoing Kano emirate saga as nine senior palace officials have dragged the 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, along with 12 other individuals, before a Kano High Court. The lawsuit, which revolves around allegations of unlawful eviction and the demolition of ancestral homes within the historic palace grounds, underscores the escalating tensions within the emirate. Filed under suit number K/M1607/2025 at the Bichi Judicial Division of the Kano State High Court, the case is being presided over by Justice Musa Ahmad. The plaintiffs, led by Usman Dako, the Galadiman Sallama, include a cohort of palace titleholders and servants who allege that their eviction was politically motivated. Their grievance is centered on accusations that the current Emir, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and the Kano Emirate Council, orchestrated their displacement as retribution for their unwavering loyalty to the deposed Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero. This power tussle, emblematic of the broader Kano traditional institution’s challenges, has further polarized the emirate. In addition to Emir Sanusi II and the emirate council, the lawsuit names several high-profile entities and individuals, including the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and several palace dignitaries, as respondents. Responding to the case, the court has issued an order compelling all parties involved to maintain the status quo ante—essentially preserving the existing state of affairs pending the court’s final determination. Moreover, the court authorized substituted service of legal documents, instructing that these be served via the Emirate Council Secretariat in Kano and through courier services for those respondents residing in Abuja. In a widely circulated video on social media, Usman Dako gave a personal account of his ordeal. He recounted that palace informants warned him that the Emir had allegedly ordered the expulsion of all individuals perceived as supporters of Aminu Ado Bayero. Dako narrated: “I was not around when my wife called me to say that some hoodlums were tearing down our home. By the time I returned, the house was in a devastating condition.” He further disclosed that the property under dispute held deep familial and historical significance. According to him, the late Emir Ado Bayero had gifted the house to his father, making it both an inheritance and a symbol of longstanding palace ties. “My father was born within the palace, and so was I. I don’t understand why we are being targeted just because we remain loyal to Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, especially when his father always treated us kindly,” Dako lamented. Despite the eviction and demolition of his residence, Dako remained resolute, openly reaffirming his allegiance to Aminu Ado Bayero, who was controversially dethroned amidst political undercurrents in Kano State. As of the time this report was compiled, neither Emir Sanusi II nor the Kano Emirate Council has made any official statement or provided clarification regarding these serious allegations and the unfolding legal battle. The Kano emirate’s internal crisis continues to unravel, with many observers closely monitoring the case for its potential impact on the revered but politically entangled traditional institution in northern Nigeria.
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Nigerian Railway Corporation Set to Resume Jos-Bukuru Train Services Starting July 14, 2025 The Plateau State Ministry of Transportation has officially confirmed that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) will recommence its daily train services along the popular Jos to Bukuru rail corridor from Monday, July 14, 2025. This highly anticipated resumption follows comprehensive repair efforts and a series of expert-led test runs that ensured the safety and functionality of the rail route. This development was communicated via an official statement issued by the Ministry’s Information Officer on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner, Davou Gyang. According to the statement, the resumption of train operations was made possible only after the infrastructure underwent thorough rehabilitation. In addition, specialized teams conducted necessary assessments to confirm that both the railway lines and the trains themselves meet the required standards for full service restoration. Furthermore, the NRC has given full certification for both the Jos-Bukuru railway routes and the trains designated for the daily trips. The service will comprise four scheduled daily trips between Bukuru Station and the Jos Terminus Station, incorporating strategic stops at both Old Airport Station and Dogon Karfe Station to facilitate commuter convenience. The Ministry’s announcement also highlighted the detailed schedule for the morning departure. The first train will leave Bukuru Station at 6:50 AM, stopping at Old Airport Station and Dogon Karfe Station, before concluding its journey at the Jos Terminus by 7:26 AM. Passengers can expect subsequent trips to follow this initial morning route throughout the day. In a bid to maximize the benefits of the newly restored rail service, the Ministry encourages residents and commuters within Jos and Bukuru to utilize the affordable train transport option for their daily movements. This initiative is expected to ease road traffic congestion and offer a cost-effective, efficient alternative to road transportation. For more details on Nigerian Railway Corporation schedules and services, visit the official NRC website.
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The Kano State government has officially advanced a proposal seeking the establishment of a new state within its territory alongside the creation of 26 additional local government areas (LGAs). This move was unveiled during the North West zonal public hearing on constitution review, which took place in Kaduna on Saturday, under the auspices of the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review. Kano’s delegation, led by the Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzo, asserted that the proposal aims to address the challenges posed by the state’s rapidly increasing population and extensive land area. Gwarzo emphasized that expanding Kano’s administrative structure would enhance governance efficiency, bring leadership closer to the populace, and foster grassroots development. “Given the enormous population growth and vast territorial expanse of Kano, the creation of another state has become necessary. Similarly, increasing the number of LGAs from 44 to 70 is essential to deepen grassroots development and local participation in governance,” Gwarzo remarked. He further affirmed Kano’s endorsement of nationwide restructuring initiatives, declaring the state’s support for the creation of new states as long as they align with the provisions of Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution. He added that the advocacy for 26 new LGAs reflects the aspirations of the people of Kano. According to Gwarzo, the proposals emanated from extensive consultations involving various stakeholders such as community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations. The memorandum was officially ratified by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after a thorough grassroots engagement process steered by a 22-member stakeholders’ committee. As part of public engagement, the committee organized radio phone-in programmes and an open forum at the iconic Mambayya House, once the residence of the late nationalist Mallam Aminu Kano, to gather public opinions and contributions. Beyond the demand for a new state and additional LGAs, Kano also championed the need for constitutional recognition of local governments as an autonomous third tier of government. The state suggested amending Sections 2(2), 7, and 162(5) of the 1999 Constitution to secure fiscal autonomy and bolster accountability in local governance. “The current federal framework subtly sidelines local governments. We urge reforms that will constitutionally anchor local governments, ensuring accountability and alignment with state policies,” Gwarzo conveyed to the constitutional review committee. On the national security front, Kano advocated for the establishment of state police, positing it as a vital complement to the existing Nigeria Police Force, especially in tackling the country’s mounting security challenges. The state stressed the importance of defining operational boundaries and ensuring effective coordination between state police and federal security agencies. “Kano is convinced that state police will help close critical security gaps. However, clear jurisdictional guidelines and cooperation mechanisms with the national police must be established,” the state’s memorandum added. Additionally, Kano recommended constitutional amendments to strengthen the roles of traditional rulers. The state emphasized safeguarding the selection processes of these traditional institutions from political manipulation. It also proposed the creation of a National Council of Traditional Rulers, composed of chairpersons from state councils of chiefs. This body would be mandated to provide advisory support to the Federal Government on national matters
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized the urgent need for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to redirect the energy of youths in the Niger Delta region from violent tendencies and militancy towards productive ventures like entrepreneurship and skills acquisition. This charge was delivered during the grand finale commemorating the 25th anniversary of the NDDC, which took place in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, on Saturday. Speaking on behalf of the president, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, stressed that the NDDC plays a critical role in driving the economic advancement of the Niger Delta region. The president remarked, “In addition to physical infrastructure, the NDDC must give premium attention to human capital development, as it is a key indicator of societal progress.” He urged the commission to actively engage with the youths in the Niger Delta through meaningful initiatives that would provide alternatives to violence and militancy. Tinubu advocated for nurturing entrepreneurial skills and fostering pathways for self-empowerment and legitimate business ventures among the youth population. “This government holds youth empowerment in high regard. I am encouraging the NDDC to forge a strong collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Development, in order to fully harness the existing government-driven initiatives aimed at youth upliftment,” Tinubu asserted. Furthermore, the president reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to community development, describing it as a priority agenda under his leadership. He also highlighted that the prompt constitution of the NDDC board at the inception of his administration, along with increased financial allocations to the commission, is a clear demonstration of his dedication to the growth and sustainable development of the Niger Delta region.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has openly identified the true source of the persistent troubles facing the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). During the grand finale of the NDDC’s 25th-anniversary celebration in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, held on Saturday, Akpabio highlighted that internal disunity among the commission’s leadership is the fundamental cause of the challenges besetting the agency. He disclosed that an alarming total of over 17,500 projects initiated by the NDDC remain abandoned, primarily due to frequent leadership changes and internal conflicts within the management team. “Why is the NDDC struggling with so many challenges? There are various reasons, but a major one is the leadership tussle,” Akpabio stated. The Senate President explained that in the Niger Delta region, there is a prevalent political culture he described as the “politics of the same head,” where leaders are impatient and unwilling to allow others their turn. This unhealthy rivalry, he noted, leads to internal conspiracies that destabilize successive management teams. Akpabio elaborated further: “Each NDDC management team tends to conspire against itself. Often, existing staff facilitate conflicts, and soon after, they manage to have the leadership ousted. In many cases, the acting Managing Director emerges from within the same staff who fueled the crisis.” Drawing from his experience as the former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Akpabio recounted his firsthand understanding of the commission’s structural problems. “When I served as Minister, I discovered that internal conflicts were the core issue. The NDDC, despite being established for over two decades, operated from a rented property on Aba Road, Port Harcourt, paying a staggering N300 million annually in rent. Shockingly, that facility was never connected to the national electricity grid,” he said. This revelation by the Senate President emphasizes the deep-seated dysfunction within the NDDC and sheds light on the agency’s inability to fulfill its developmental mandate to the Niger Delta region
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In a recent development, the Federal Ministry of Interior, Nigeria, has formally announced the commencement of the 2025 recruitment exercise into several of its core agencies. The recruitment process is officially set to kick off on Monday, July 14, 2025. This significant announcement was made public via the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of the Ministry, outlining that the application portal will be opened to eligible Nigerians interested in joining any of the four key paramilitary institutions under its supervision. Parastatals Involved in 2025 Recruitment The agencies participating in the upcoming 2025 recruitment exercise include: According to the statement shared by the Ministry on its verified social media handle, interested and qualified applicants are advised to begin the application process starting Monday, July 14, 2025. “Interested and qualified candidates are to register through recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng,” the statement read. How to Apply for the 2025 Federal Recruitment Eligible individuals seeking employment into any of the listed paramilitary agencies must complete their registration through the official recruitment portal provided by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) via recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng. Additionally, the Ministry of Interior advised all applicants to carefully review the application requirements, eligibility criteria, and necessary documentation by visiting its official website at https://interior.gov.ng for more comprehensive information. This move signifies the government’s ongoing effort to enhance national security, job creation, and institutional manpower across core national paramilitary services.
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International rap icon Nicki Minaj has firmly shut down widespread speculation that she is financially “broke,” addressing rumors sparked after her public jab at billionaire rap mogul Jay-Z over an alleged $200 million debt. The internet was recently ablaze with claims suggesting that the “Anaconda” rapper had hit a financial rough patch. These whispers intensified following her bold confrontation with Jay-Z, which some fans misinterpreted as a sign of economic distress. Adding fuel to the fire, a portion of her fanbase suggested that Nicki Minaj went bankrupt in the aftermath of her latest music tour. These assertions quickly gained traction across social media platforms, prompting a direct response from the superstar herself. One fan questioned Minaj’s silence over the speculations, tweeting, “There was a tweet about u having nothing left after ya tour, you didn’t quote that to say it was a lie tho.” Nicki Minaj, never one to hold back, swiftly responded with a powerful rebuttal. According to her, the bankruptcy rumors are completely false and rooted in envy and misinformation spread by her detractors. “Buying another mansion as we speak,” she wrote. “It would be the 3rd in 2 years. That’s besides the property I bought for others for 15 years. Catch up ugly. If tmrw I wake up & want maybe 20-30MM, all I have to do is hand in my album silly wabbit. Then I’d tour again & gross over a hunnit.” Minaj emphasized her financial independence and wealth-generating power, highlighting that she has purchased multiple real estate properties for herself and others over the last decade and a half. She also made it clear that her earnings potential remains strong, with millions ready to be made once she releases a new album and hits the road again. In another part of her post, Nicki attributed the rumors to jealousy and “projection,” blaming it on what she calls “Bot Nation”—a group she appears to associate with online trolls. “Do you realize this is Nicki Minaj? It’s just projection from Bot Nation it seems. Justice for Demoree,” she added, cryptically referencing someone named Demoree, a figure her fans have been speculating about online. And in true Nicki fashion, she ended her rebuttal with a flair of luxury and confidence, revealing her latest high-ticket purchase. “Just bought my first jet. It’s all pink. Come on losers, get in! Sike. Fly Barbz only.” Her comments sent shockwaves through her fanbase, with supporters praising her unapologetic attitude and business savvy. Once again, Nicki Minaj proves that she isn’t just a powerhouse in music, but a force to be reckoned with when it comes to entrepreneurship, branding, and owning her narrative.
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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.
