CSO raises concerns over legality, transparency of Lagos LG polls

A civil society organisation Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria has raised concerns over the legality and transparency of the electoral process, to herald the conduct local government elections in Lagos State.

In a statement issued on Thursday, EiE expressed “deep concern over the unfolding issues surrounding the forthcoming 2025 Local Government elections in Lagos State, particularly regarding the legal basis of the election timetable and the lack of transparency.”

While commending LASIEC’s adherence to a 90-day notice requirement, EiE warned that the timeline might conflict with federal law. “The 92-day interval between the notice and the election date appears to satisfy LASIEC’s internal legal framework,” the statement read.

However, EiE pointed out that “Section 150 of the Electoral Act 2022 mandates that State Independent Electoral Commissions, including LASIEC, must adhere to the same procedures as those governing elections into Area Councils in the Federal Capital Territory.” This includes Section 103(3) of the Act, which stipulates that such elections must be held between 150 and 30 days before the expiration of current officeholders’ tenures.

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“With the current tenure of Local Government Chairmen and Councillors in Lagos State due to end on July 27, 2025, the lawful election window, per the Electoral Act, is between February 25 and June 25, 2025. The announced date of July 12 falls outside this legal window,” EiE stated.

The organisation also criticised LASIEC’s unilateral decision-making, particularly the release of election guidelines without consulting political parties. It echoed concerns raised by the Inter-Party Advisory Council and called for the immediate release of the updated LASIEC Law.

EiE further demanded a public clarification on the legal status of Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the electoral process, urging Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensure that LASIEC operates within its constitutional mandate.

“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who appointed members of the Commission, should ensure they are abiding by their sworn mandate,” the statement added.

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