Tight Security and High Compliance Mark Lagos Local Government Elections

ABUJA, Nigeria – July 12, 2025 — Local government elections in Lagos State unfolded under a blanket of tight security on Saturday, with residents largely complying with government-imposed movement restrictions, ensuring a smooth and peaceful electoral process across Nigeria’s most populous state.

Strong Security Presence Across Election Centres

The headquarters of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) in Yaba was heavily fortified, with officers from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS) stationed at strategic entry points. Roadblocks were set up at both ends of the street leading to the LASIEC premises to restrict vehicular movement and ensure order.

Similar scenes played out in several parts of the state, including Badagry and the Mosan-Okunola axis of Alimosho Local Government Area, where combined teams from the Police, NSCDC, and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) were deployed. The usually vibrant streets were eerily quiet by 9 a.m., with only electoral staff, security operatives, and accredited observers visible.

Compliance with Movement Restrictions

To support the electoral process, the Lagos State Government had earlier announced a restriction of vehicular and pedestrian movement from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. across the state. Field reports show a high level of compliance from residents.

Major roads, including Abesan Gate Road, Akowonjo Road, and the Ipaja-Ayobo axis, were deserted. Shops, markets, and motor parks remained closed, while commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators stayed off the roads.

The presence of security agents at key locations ensured enforcement of the restriction. Officers from the Police, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and FRSC worked in coordination to maintain peace and monitor voter access to polling stations.

LASIEC Oversees Elections in 57 Councils

The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission is conducting elections across 20 constitutionally recognized Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), covering 57 councils and 376 electoral wards.

Voting began as scheduled in most areas. However, isolated incidents of delay were reported. In Agboyi-Ketu, for instance, polling was delayed due to the late arrival of party agents. Meanwhile, in Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, voting commenced promptly, marking the symbolic beginning of the polls in that district.

Voter Voices and Reactions

Many voters praised the peaceful conduct and high compliance observed. “I am happy people are obeying the movement restriction. It shows that we are becoming more conscious of the importance of orderly elections,” said Mrs. Bosede Akinwale, a voter in Alimosho.

Observers noted that the calm environment created an ideal setting for voters to cast their ballots without fear or pressure. Chukwuma Eze, a civil society election monitor, commented, “This is one of the most peaceful local elections we’ve witnessed in recent years.”

Context: Why This Matters

Local government elections are the foundation of Nigeria’s federal democracy, representing governance at the grassroots level. While these polls typically garner less attention than state or national elections, they are crucial for community development and accountability.

In past cycles, Lagos LG elections were often marked by voter apathy, low turnout, and logistical issues. The level of organization and compliance seen in Saturday’s exercise could signal a turning point in public engagement at the local level.

Expert Views and Public Sentiment

Political experts have noted the improved logistics and coordination by LASIEC. “LASIEC has shown greater administrative capacity this cycle, and the voter response has been encouraging,” said Dr. Aminu Bello, a political science lecturer at the University of Lagos.

On social media, residents shared photos of empty roads and peaceful polling stations using hashtags like #LagosLGElection and #VotePeacefully, reflecting a growing awareness of civic responsibility and peaceful participation.

What Comes Next?

With voting concluded in most council areas, attention now shifts to the collation and announcement of results. LASIEC has promised transparency and urged residents to remain calm as votes are tallied.

Whatever the results, the relative order and discipline observed in this election may set a new benchmark for local electoral processes in Nigeria—especially in densely populated and politically active states like Lagos.

This story was first reported by NAN (News Agency of Nigeria).