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The Coalition of Political Parties in Lagos State on Thursday applauded the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission for ”conducting a free, fair, and credible local council election” in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that LASIEC on Saturday conducted council election into the 20 Local Governments, 37 Local Council Development Areas, and 376 councillorship seats in the states.
The ruling APC won all 57 chairmanship seats and secured 375 out of the 376 councillorship positions, according the state electoral commission.
Some opposition parties have rejected the results of the election, saying the election was deeply flawed and so, not credible.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday in Ikeja, the Spokesman for the Coalition and Lagos State Chairman of defunct Alliance for Democracy, Chief Kola Ajayi, however, commended LASIEC’s Chairman, Retired Justice Bola Okikiola-Ighile and her team “for living up to expectations.”
Ajayi commended the umpire’s professionalism and commitment to what he called electoral integrity in the face of notable challenges.
“We equally appreciate the security agencies for their neutrality and professionalism throughout the electoral process, which contributed significantly to the peaceful conduct of the elections.
“To all the successful candidates across the state, we extend our heartfelt congratulations.
“We urge you to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and be magnanimous in victory, recognising that true leadership is measured by service and inclusivity,” he said.
Ajayi, however, expressed the coalition’s concern over recurrent voter apathy in the elections, which he said, was not good for democracy.
He said that democracy should be inclusive and participatory for best outcomes.
Ajayi added, “The coalition, comprising both registered and de-registered political parties, civil society organisations, and ethnic-based groups—also notes with concern the persistent issue of voters apathy.
“In view of this, we advocate the formation of a tripartite engagement mechanism involving the State Government, LASIEC, the Independent National Electoral Commission, National Orientation Agency, Civil Societies and other relevant stakeholders.
“This is to strategise on voters education, awareness, and participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We must collectively take urgent steps to reawaken the public interest in the electoral process and remind our citizens that voting is not just a right—it is a civic responsibility and a powerful tool for change.”
Ajayi reaffirmed the group’s commitment to deepening democracy and strengthening democratic institutions in the state and Nigeria at large.
(NAN)
