The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has come under intense scrutiny from civil society organisations, which raise concerns over the transparency of the forthcoming 2025 Local Government elections in the state.
On 12 April 2025, LASIEC issued a Notice of Election for polls scheduled to hold on Saturday, 12 July 2025.
In a joint statement, Yiaga Africa and Enough is Enough (EIE) Nigeria noted that the notice, which provides 92 days before the election, appears to comply with Section 21(1) of the LASIEC Law 2008 (as amended in 2016), which requires a minimum of 90 days’ notice.
However, Yiaga Africa and EIE expressed deep concern over what they described as growing irregularities and a lack of transparency. The organisations argue that LASIEC’s actions may violate the Electoral Act 2022.
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In their statement, Yiaga Africa and EIE urged that the election date be immediately revised to comply with the Electoral Act 2022. They also called for the publication of the revised LASIEC Law to allow for public scrutiny and alignment with national law.
Furthermore, the organisations emphasised the need for clarity on the legal status of the Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) through the Lagos State House of Assembly. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was also urged to uphold his duty to democratic governance.
Yiaga Africa and EIE reiterated the importance of credible grassroots elections. “Elections at the local government level are fundamental,” they said. “If mismanaged, they erode public trust and weaken democratic governance at the grassroots.”
As the 12 July date approaches, pressure continues to mount on LASIEC to address the legal and procedural concerns or risk delegitimising the electoral process.
