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LAGOS, Nigeria - The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission has stated that any instance of ballot box snatching during Saturday's local government elections will necessitate a by-election in the affected area.
This announcement was made during a press conference on Thursday, where the commission's Chairman, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (retd.), assured Lagos residents of LASIEC's preparedness to conduct an election that is free, fair, and credible across the state's 57 local councils.
“There will be by-elections if a ballot box is snatched anywhere,” she noted in response to queries from reporters at Tripple C Event Centre, Sabo Yaba, Lagos.
The LASIEC Chairman added, “While we hope this does not occur,” it will be essential to carry out a by-election in any local council where such an event takes place.
Addressing questions from journalists at the briefing, the commission stated that there is no threat to postpone the election whatsoever.
The LASIEC head reassured Lagosians about the commission's commitment to conducting a transparent and fair election throughout the 57 local councils.
The LASIEC has scheduled elections for July 12, 2025, for local government and local council development areas in the state.
To ensure a smooth election process and security, the Lagos State Police Command has also announced movement restrictions for Saturday, July 12, 2025. However, on Thursday, the police adjusted the time for these movement restrictions for the election.
In a statement from spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin on Wednesday, the police revealed that personnel would be deployed at key locations for the upcoming Saturday poll.
On Thursday, the command updated the movement restriction timeline, stating, “To assist residents with urgent medical emergencies, appointments, and those traveling internationally, the vehicular movement restriction will now start at 6:00 am and conclude at 3:00 pm on Saturday, July 12, 2025, rather than the previously announced start time of 3:00 am.
Public cooperation and adherence to the new timing are requested,” said Hundeyin in a statement.
The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, reaffirmed the command's commitment to facilitating a secure, safe, and orderly electoral process.
