The much-anticipated Local Government elections in Lagos State are now underway across various council areas, albeit with late commencement, voter apathy, and logistical issues marring the process in several locations.
IBEJU-LEKKI: Late Start, Low Security, and Media Restrictions
Voting commenced in most polling units around Iwerekun 1 Awoyaya, at about 9:45 a.m., following late arrival of LASIEC ad-hoc staff, who cited difficulties with material sorting and unit identification.
Turnout: Low, with several queues empty.Security: Minimal presence observed.
Media Restrictions: Thugs reportedly warned election observers not to take photos or videos at polling centers.
Ballot Update: Only APC, Labour Party, and SDP were seen on the ballot.
ISOLO/AGO PALACE WAY: Voters Waiting, Materials Delayed
As of mid-morning, election materials were yet to arrive at AGO Palace Way, Isolo, but voters were already on ground, waiting in queues.Security operatives were observed maintaining calm and order.
BARIGA: APC Candidate Bukola Adedeji Laments Apathy
APC Chairmanship Candidate, Bukola Adedeji, expressed concern over low turnout in Bariga LCDA, despite peaceful conditions.She urged residents to come out and vote, stressing the importance of grassroots governance.
AMUWO-ODOFIN: Confusion Over New Polling Units
Voting began at around 10 a.m. in Monkey Village, Comfort Aboh, Mazamaza, Agboju, FESTAC, and Satellite Town, but turnout has remained low.
Observers blame the apathy on:
Confusion over relocation of polling units
Poor communication by LASIEC
Opposition party presence was noted in many of the affected areas.
IKEJA: Voting Began at 10:45 a.m
In Ikeja LGA, voting began after ballot papers arrived late.Council Chairman, Dr. Mojeed Alabi Balogun, was the first to vote and commended LASIEC for addressing technical issues quickly.
It reportedly takes an average of 5 minutes for voters to complete accreditation and voting.
AYOBO-IPAJA: Party Agents Canvassing Homes
Voting has begun in Ayobo-Ipaja, but with very few voters at the polling units.Some party agents were seen calling or visiting homes to persuade residents to vote.
Security: Present and effective.
Restriction: Strictly enforced on vehicles and motorcycles, though a few shops were open.
EPE: Staggered Starts Across Polling Units
In Epe, voting began around 10:46 a.m. in some areas, while others were still setting up.
The situation remains calm, with party agents and security personnel on standby.
Reporting by Angela Anyamene, Vera Ekpenyong and Warhe Bello