The long-awaited local government area (LGA) election in Lagos State has begun as officials from the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) began to arrive at polling stations early Saturday morning.
Voting began at polling units 02 and 06, Lawani Street, Abule-Oja, Yaba, at about 9 am, and it is one of several polling units that will receive voters across the 20 local government areas (LGAs) and 37 local council development areas (LCDAs) in the state.
The election process, however, is taking place amidst a backdrop of uncertainty and criticism, particularly from civil society organisations that have voiced concerns regarding the election’s credibility and transparency.
Amidst this growing controversy, LASIEC published the long-awaited “validated” list of candidates competing for chairmanship and councillorship positions on Thursday, just two days before the elections.
The prolonged delay in announcing the candidate list has further fueled worries about transparency and the electoral body’s readiness.
Additionally, security protocols have been enhanced in anticipation of the elections. The Lagos police command initially announced a ban on vehicle and waterway movement from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. However, in a revised announcement on Thursday, police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin said that the restriction would now commence at 6 a.m., providing some relief for early morning commuters.
As the electoral event unfolds, residents, election monitors, and civil society organisations are attentively observing the process, concerned about potential logistical issues, voter indifference, and the overall integrity of the election.
