The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) today affirmed its utmost readiness for the upcoming local government elections scheduled for Saturday, 12 July 2025.
During a press conference ahead of the Local Government and Local Council Development Area Election held in Lagos, the Chairman of LASIEC, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile, outlined extensive preparations, urged citizens to participate, and assured that robust security measures will be in place.
“The day of the elections is upon us, I can assure you that LASIEC is extremely prepared, as humanly possible.”
She said the elections will see citizens across the state’s 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) casting their votes to elect new leaders.
A total of 57 chairmanship, 57 vice-chairmanship, and 376 councillorship positions are available.
While discussing the key election statistics, she noted that 13,325 polling units will be accessible across the state, 15 out of 19 registered political parties will participate, 7,060,195 voters have registered, 6,214,970 PVCs have been collected, and 845,225 PVCs remain uncollected, she stated.
She reiterated the commission’s comprehensive engagement efforts, which have included consultations and advocacy visits with political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies, youth groups, market associations, religious bodies, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). “These engagements, began shortly after the commission’s tenure commenced in January 2025, aim to promote inclusiveness and transparency.
“We have taken comprehensive steps, in line with our constitutional mandates and electoral guidelines, to ensure a seamless process,” she noted.
Okikiolu-Ighile added that the commission has compiled and distributed electoral laws and amendments to all parties.
“A significant focus has been placed on voter education, with campaigns conducted across all five senatorial districts and extended to markets, community clubs, and public transportation, utilizing stickers on BRT buses and commercial vehicles. Special attention was given to PWDs, women, and youth, who were offered free nomination forms and will receive priority at polling units, alongside the aged and nursing mothers.”
She added that security remains a top priority. “The commission has engaged extensively with the Inspector General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, receiving assurances of adequate security. “There will be at least four security agents per polling unit. Nigerian Police, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Services (DSS) as first responders, with joint military patrols on standby,” she confirmed.
She said the voting process is scheduled to run from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Voters are advised to check their designated polling units, as the number of units has increased significantly from 8,000 in 2019 to 13,325, aiming to bring them closer to residents’ homes.”
Okikiolu-Ighile appealed to citizens to participate actively in the election for grassroots development and the future of communities.
“Your vote is your voice. Your voice is your power. Why would you want to sell your power? Why would you want to sell your voice? Why would you even decide to keep silent?” she asked.
The chairman urged candidates to uphold democratic values and behave with decorum and respect for the rule of law. “The commission reiterated its non-partisan stance, warning against any form of electoral malpractice, which will be met with firm action from security agencies.
“LASIEC is prepared for this election. Every necessary measure has been put in place, so come out and vote peacefully on that day,” Okikiolu-Ighile said.
