From Staff Writer
The Chairman of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), Hon. Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (Rtd), has declared that only a court of law has the authority to stop the scheduled Local Government Area (LGA) and Local Council Development Area (LCDA) elections fixed for Saturday, 12th July, 2025.
Addressing journalists during a World Press Conference held at the Triple C Event Centre, Sabo, Yaba, Lagos, Justice Okikiolu-Ighile dismissed rumours of an impending postponement, saying the Commission is not aware of any protest demanding that the polls be shifted to 30th August, 2025.
She affirmed that LASIEC has not received any court injunction mandating a postponement, stressing that the Commission is legally empowered to proceed with the conduct of the elections as planned. “Unless the court decides otherwise, the elections will hold on July 12 as scheduled. We are fully prepared to allow Lagosians exercise their democratic right to elect their chairmen and councillors,” she said.
On security arrangements, the LASIEC boss disclosed that adequate provisions have been made to prevent electoral malpractice, including ballot box snatching. She noted that at least four security operatives will be deployed to each ward, significantly reducing the chances of any breach. However, in the event of any disruption, a by-election will be conducted in the affected areas.
Justice Okikiolu-Ighile further revealed that comprehensive logistical plans have been concluded, including the transportation of personnel and election materials, assuring that all polling units will be fully operational by 8:00 a.m., with the exercise running until 3:00 p.m.
Vote counting and announcement of councillorship results will be done at the ward level, while chairmanship results will be declared at the respective local government secretariats. She reiterated that the provisions of the 2008 amended electoral law will be strictly adhered to.
Speaking on the voter register and nomination process, the LASIEC Chair said the final validation list was received on Tuesday, 8th July, 2025. She disclosed that some candidates had submitted incomplete nomination forms, prompting the Commission to invite them to complete the process in compliance with legal requirements.
Justice Okikiolu-Ighile stressed that LASIEC would not engage in a media trial regarding any disputes or legal challenges, noting that such matters are within the jurisdiction of the courts. “We have no legal standing to interfere with court proceedings,” she stated.
The LASIEC Chairman also assured that the Commission has taken proactive steps to ensure a credible, free, and peaceful election, including extensive voter education programmes targeted at market associations, youth groups, persons with disabilities, religious leaders, and security agencies.
She added that sensitisation campaigns have been carried out across the three senatorial districts and five administrative divisions of Lagos State—Epe, Ikeja, Ikorodu, Badagry, and Lagos Island. In furtherance of security coordination, she said she has personally met with the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh.
As the State prepares to head to the polls, LASIEC’s message to the public remains clear: “Your Vote Matters. Your Voice, Your Vote Counts. Vote—Your Future Depends on It.”
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