Despite the peaceful atmosphere and the governor’s satisfaction with the process, the Lagos State local government elections held on Saturday were marked by low voter turnout and widespread operational delays across polling units.
Multiple polling stations reported sparse attendance as voters expressed frustration over the late arrival of electoral officials. The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) had earlier promised a seamless process, but many residents reported long waits and confusion at their polling stations.
In areas such as Ikosi-Isheri, Oshodi, and Lagos Island, voters were seen waiting for LASIEC officials hours after polls were scheduled to open. Reports indicated that in many locations, voting didn’t commence until well after 10:00 a.m., despite the official start time.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who cast his vote at Polling Unit 006, Ward E, Lagos Island, described the election as “peaceful and well-coordinated.” Speaking to journalists, he praised the calmness and professionalism exhibited by electoral officers, noting that minor delays related to transportation were swiftly resolved.
“There were no shortages of materials. It was mainly a logistical issue of getting personnel to the right locations,” he said, adding that most polling units eventually commenced voting by midday.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of grassroots governance, stating that local councils play a vital role in advancing the THEMES Plus agenda and aligning with the federal government’s Renewed Hope vision.
However, not everyone shared the governor’s optimism.
Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Senator Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, has called for the cancellation of the elections. She alleged that polling units were moved without proper notice and claimed that her name was missing from the voters’ register at her designated unit.
“There’s a deliberate attempt to rig this election. People couldn’t find their names, and polling units were randomly relocated,” she said during a radio interview. “I am calling for the cancellation of this election.”
Out of 19 political parties in Lagos, 15 fielded candidates in the elections, which were held under tight security to select chairmen and councillors for the state’s 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
Despite security assurances and the presence of election observers from other states, the exercise was marred by organizational challenges and growing public distrust, casting doubts over the credibility of the results.
