LAGOS, July 12, 2025
The local government elections in Lagos State on Saturday were marked by low voter turnout and late arrival of election materials in several parts of Alimosho and Agege local government areas.
Residents who turned out early at polling units across both LGAs were left waiting for hours as officials of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) struggled to deliver voting materials on time. In some polling centres, accreditation did not commence until after 10:30 am, causing frustration among voters.
In Alimosho, Nigeria’s most populous local government area, electoral materials and LASIEC staff were not present at many polling units well past the scheduled starting time. Some voters eventually left, citing fatigue and a lack of communication from officials.
Similarly, in Agege, turnout remained low throughout the morning despite the eventual arrival of voting materials. Polling officers at some units attributed the delay to logistics challenges and traffic obstructions in transit.
Observers noted that the slow start and weak turnout could affect the credibility of the election process in the affected areas. However, security operatives were seen stationed at various locations to ensure safety and prevent disruptions.
The Lagos LG polls are expected to elect chairmen and councillors across the state’s 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas, with authorities urging residents to exercise their civic rights peacefully.
