As Lagos State prepares for its much-anticipated Local Government elections, the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a transparent, peaceful, and inclusive electoral process.
This was made known during a recent press briefing held by the Commission ahead of the elections scheduled to take place across all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of the state.
Addressing members of the press and stakeholders, LASIEC expressed deep appreciation to journalists and media practitioners, acknowledging them as critical stakeholders in the democratic process.
The Commission emphasized the importance of press coverage in ensuring public awareness and transparency, stating that without the media, many citizens would remain unaware of ongoing electoral developments.
The press was urged to maintain professionalism and offer unbiased coverage during the entire electoral exercise.
Security remains a key priority, and LASIEC assured voters that robust arrangements have been made in collaboration with multiple security agencies to safeguard the integrity of the elections.
At least four security bodies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and members of the Nigerian Civil Defence Corps, will be actively deployed before, during, and after the elections to maintain peace and order.
Military patrols will also be on standby to reinforce security measures where necessary.
Speaking further, the Commission warned that any form of electoral malpractice, violence, or disorderliness will not be tolerated.
All candidates have been urged to conduct themselves with decorum and uphold the principles of democratic engagement.
LASIEC called on all political actors to play their part in fostering a peaceful electoral environment.
To the electorate, the Commission delivered a strong message of encouragement, stressing that “silence is not an option when you have a voice.”
Citizens were urged to come out en masse to exercise their civic duty and vote for their preferred candidates, reinforcing that participation is key to strengthening the democratic fabric of their communities.
Chairman of LASIEC, Hon. justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile rtd the chairman, LASIEC (rtd.), while addressing attendees, confirmed that all preparations are in full swing for the Saturday election. She disclosed that Lagosians will be voting to elect 57 chairmen and vice-chairmen, along with 376 councilors across the 13,325 polling units in the state.
According to Hon. justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile rtd the chairman, LASIEC has extensively engaged various stakeholder groups, ranging from civil society organizations and security agencies to market associations, religious groups, and community leaders, through advocacy visits and public sensitization meetings to encourage participation and ensure the electoral process is both transparent and credible.
As the briefing came to a close, LASIEC reassured the public that every necessary effort is being made to leave no stone unturned in delivering a free and fair election.
Responses to questions from stakeholders were addressed in detail, underscoring the Commission’s readiness and openness to public scrutiny.
The upcoming election, LASIEC concluded, is not just a civic event but a defining moment for deepening grassroots democracy in Lagos State.
