The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has fixed July 12, 2025, for the local government elections across the state. This announcement was made on Friday by Tope Ojo, LASIEC’s Head of Public Affairs, marking the official start of preparations for electing 57 council chairpersons and 376 councillors across the state’s 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas. Ojo noted that if reruns are necessary in any ward or council, supplementary elections will be held on July 19. The move comes as the current tenure of local government officials approaches its conclusion, prompting LASIEC to initiate steps to ensure a smooth transition and prevent any administrative gaps at the local level.
“The commission has issued the official Notice of Election, signalling the commencement of electoral activities. Political parties can now collect nomination forms from LASIEC’s headquarters,” Ojo said.
As part of stakeholder engagement, LASIEC has scheduled a meeting with all registered political parties for Tuesday.
The commission also revealed that the full Election Guidelines will be released on April 17. These guidelines will outline the procedures for the election, including timelines for nominations and campaigns.
Political parties will be allowed to start campaigning and holding rallies from April 18 through July 9, giving them nearly three months to reach voters.
Nominations for “only candidates” and “substituted candidates” must be completed between June 18 and June 25, according to the election timetable.
Justice Ayotunde Phillips (rtd), Chairman of LASIEC, reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to conducting a transparent, fair, and inclusive election.
She emphasized LASIEC’s goal of ensuring equal opportunities for all political parties, regardless of their size or influence.
“We are committed to enhancing grassroots democracy through credible elections. Integrity is at the core of this process, and we are working closely with stakeholders to build public confidence in the outcome,” she said.
She also appealed to political parties, civil society groups, security agencies, and citizens to support peaceful and orderly elections.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration has consistently underscored the vital role of local government in driving development throughout Lagos.
With the majority of public services and community projects managed at the local level, credible elections are viewed as essential to maintaining Lagos’ leadership in governance and urban planning.
The upcoming elections are expected to be a significant test of the state’s political landscape, as parties seek to boost their grassroots presence.
Observers believe the polls could serve as a precursor to broader political shifts ahead of the 2027 general elections.
— NAN
