Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of Saturday’s local government elections, describing the exercise as a testament to the state’s growing democratic culture.
Voting concluded smoothly across all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas, with results now being collated by the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC).
The governor, who voted at his Ikoyi polling unit, commended security agencies for maintaining order and voters for their impressive turnout.
“This peaceful election demonstrates Lagosians’ commitment to grassroots democracy,”
Sanwo-Olu stated during his post-election assessment.
He particularly praised the elderly and Persons With Disabilities who participated despite logistical challenges.
Initial reports from LASIEC indicate:
- Over 40% voter turnout, surpassing 2021’s 18%
- Minor technical glitches in some electronic voter devices
- Isolated cases of vote-buying reported in 3 LGAs
Opposition parties including PDP and Labour Party have lodged complaints about alleged irregularities in some areas, though observers from the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room described the process as “largely credible.”
Security remained tight throughout the day, with 15,000 police officers deployed to prevent disturbances.
The elections mark a crucial test for Sanwo-Olu’s administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As Lagos awaits official results, the governor has called for calm, urging all concerned to trust LASIEC’s process.
“Whoever emerges winner should prioritize community development,” Sanwo-Olu advised, emphasizing that the true victor should be Lagos’ democratic progress.
