The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has kicked off its series of stakeholder forums, urging collaboration to ensure free, fair, and credible local government elections slated for July 12, 2025.

Speaking during the forum, themed ‘Enhancing a Credible and Inclusive Local Government Elections in Lagos State’, the Chairman of LASIEC, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile, stressed the importance of public trust and inclusive participation.

“The development that leads to a free, fair, and credible election starts with the promotion of public confidence and trust in the process,” she stated.

Present at the stakeholders’ forum were political parties, civil society groups, youth movements, persons with disabilities, security agencies, traditional and religious institutions, market leaders, and the media.

The Chairman outlined LASIEC’s commitment to a transparent and seamless electoral process, assuring Lagosians that preparations were in top gear.

She highlighted the issuance of the Notice of Election and Election Guidelines, underscoring the commission’s dedication to operating within the legal framework.

“The fundamental objective of this engagement today is for us to let you know the painstaking efforts the Commission is making and to also seek your input as stakeholders to achieve a hitch-free outing in the forthcoming Local Government Election,” she said.

Okikiolu-Ighile assured adequate security during the election, as appropriate security agencies were put in place.
She added, “Security of lives and properties before, during, and after the elections is fundamental and not being taken for granted.”

She also appealed for support in voter education to combat apathy and prevent electoral violence.

The Chairman noted that the series of stakeholder forums would continue across all administrative divisions of Lagos State in the lead-up to the July elections.

The Permanent Secretary of LASIEC, Mr. Abdul-Rafiu Omowole Fashola, said that elections are about equity and good governance, and the engagement of stakeholders who drive the economy is crucial.

He stressed the vital role of voter education and the commission’s commitment to transparency to reflect the people’s mandate. He encouraged open dialogue and constructive feedback from participants.

Mr. Akim Oluwo, Chairman of Media, Publicity, and Voters Education, reiterated LASIEC’s dedication to promoting credible elections where every vote counts.

He outlined key goals, including identifying barriers to participation, sensitising the public on electoral reforms, and fostering collaboration between LASIEC and other bodies, describing the forum as a democratic platform for reflection and reforms.

Responding to participant concerns about security, the LASIEC Chairman affirmed that security personnel would be stationed at every polling unit on election day. On the matter of voter cards and relocation, she advised individuals with any discrepancies to visit the INEC portal to make necessary corrections.