LASIEC Assures Readiness for Saturday’s Lagos LG Poll

T The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has reiterated its preparedness to conduct a free, fair, and credible local government election on Saturday, July 13, 2025.

Speaking at a press briefing, LASIEC Chairman, Hon. Justice Ayotunde Phillips (rtd), provided a comprehensive update on the commission’s activities, preparations, and safeguards leading to the election.

“We were sworn in on the 10th of January, 2025, and by the 13th, we convened our first meeting. We issued the notice of election, released guidelines, and commenced our election calendar,” she said.

Highlighting the scale of the exercise, she stated, “There are 13,325 polling units across the state and a total of 6,250,970 registered voters. This gives us a projected voter count (PDC) of 5,075,225.”

Of the 19 registered political parties, only 15 are participating in the election. “Some just collected funds, returned forms, and fielded names without a genuine interest in contesting,” she noted critically.

To build public confidence, LASIEC has engaged stakeholders including political parties, civil society organizations, security agencies, market leaders, youth groups, religious institutions, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). “Our goal is simple — a free and transparent election,” Phillips emphasized.

She added, “We embarked on voter education drives across the five divisions of Lagos: Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe. We visited all 20 LGAs and 37 LCDAs, inspecting our offices and facilities. Our effort included sensitization forums in markets and communities, and targeted outreach for persons with disabilities.”

LASIEC has also prioritized inclusivity. “We issued free nomination forms to PWDs and women to encourage greater participation,” she said. “Polling units will give priority to pregnant women, nursing mothers, and the elderly.”

On logistics, the chairman assured that all sensitive materials are secured. “We’ve stocked central warehouses and ensured early deployment to local government areas for easy access on election day. Transportation plans are robust. Our ad hoc staff have been trained and validated.”

Voting is scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the designated polling units. “Each voter shall cast their ballot at the polling unit where they registered. We've designated 8,825 candidates across the board and encourage voters to verify their locations ahead of time,” she advised.

Security remains a top priority. “We’ve coordinated with the police, DSS, NSCDC, and the military. Each polling unit will have security presence. We are not leaving anything to chance,” she affirmed.

Addressing potential concerns, Phillips said, “Any attempt to disrupt the process or smash ballot boxes will be met with swift response from security operatives. We’ve rehearsed every scenario.”

Appealing to voters, she said, “Your vote is your voice. Your voice is your power. Don’t sell it. Don’t stay silent. This local government election directly affects your daily life — roads, schools, health centers, waste management. Get out and vote.”

She concluded with a passionate call to action:
“Politics is not for the politicians alone. It is your right and your future. Let’s make it count. LASIEC is ready. The question is — are you ready to choose your leaders?”

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful, inclusive, and credible election — encouraging all stakeholders to uphold democratic values and ensure a violence-free process.