Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on Friday, swore in five new members of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) and three permanent secretaries at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja.

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, traditional rulers, and top government officials.

In his address, Sanwo-Olu congratulated the newly appointed LASIEC Chairman, Honorable Justice Bola Okikiolu Ighile, and other members of the commission: Mr. Samson Ajibade, Chief Oluwo Akim Durojaiye, Dr. Metilelu Olumide Olushola, Mr. Aileru Habeeb Dapo, and Hon. Oladele Adesanya. He emphasized the significance of their roles, saying, “Today marks a pivotal moment in our state’s democratic journey. We entrust this distinguished body with the critical task of safeguarding and strengthening our electoral processes.”

The governor urged LASIEC to prioritize transparency, fairness, and impartiality, noting that credible elections are the cornerstone of democracy. He encouraged them to leverage technology, such as biometric voter registration, to enhance efficiency and reliability while fostering collaboration with stakeholders, political parties, civil society, and the media.

Describing LASIEC as a “pillar of our democratic framework,” Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the commission’s role in organizing free, fair, and credible local government elections. He called on the new team to remain focused on their responsibility, which he described as shaping the future of Lagos communities.

The governor also swore in three Permanent Secretaries: Mr. Abdul-Rasheed Muri-Okunola, Mrs. Kaphaya Olayemi Sarumi, and Mr. Abdul Rafiu Omowole Fashola. He commended their years of dedicated service and commitment to excellence.

“Today marks a significant milestone, not only in the careers of these distinguished officers but also in the continued progress and development of our dear state,” the governor said.

He outlined the responsibilities of their new roles, stressing professionalism, impartial advice, effective policy implementation, innovation, and prioritizing service delivery.

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“Above all, remember that you are public servants. Your primary responsibility is to serve the people of Lagos State with dedication, empathy, and a commitment to excellence,” he added.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also expressed gratitude to the families of the appointees for their support, while reiterating his administration’s commitment to upholding integrity, fairness, and transparency in governance.

The event was graced by dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat; the Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro; the Principal Secretary to the President, Barr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola; the Oba of Elegushi, HRM Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi; and the Oba of Igbobi-Sabe, HRM Oba Owolabi Adeyemi, among others.

The governor concluded his speech by urging the appointees to uphold the trust placed in them, saying, “Lagosians will be watching. Your success will be a victory for democracy and good governance in Lagos State.”