- LASIEC Chairman Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile assures full preparedness for July 12 LG and LCDA elections.
- NYSC members will not be used as ad hoc staff; security agencies, including the Navy, will be deployed to polling units.
- All political parties to sign a Peace Accord; LASIEC staff to take a neutrality oath to ensure transparency.
The Chairman of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (Rtd), has assured Lagosians of the commission’s full readiness to conduct a free, fair, and credible election come July 12.
Ekohotblog reports that in an exclusive interview, Justice Okikiolu-Ighile provided a detailed insight into LASIEC’s level of preparedness, noting that all necessary arrangements have been concluded to ensure a seamless electoral process across all Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state.
EDITOR’S PICKS
- Epe Council Chairman Urges Massive Voter Turnout Ahead of July 12 Election
- ‘You Crossed the Line’ – Iran Slams U.S, Israel Over Nuclear Attacks, Seeks Urgent Talks with Russia
- Favour Ofili Reportedly Dumps Nigeria for Turkey Ahead of World Championships
“We have put everything in place to guarantee that the elections are transparent, fair, and reflective of the people’s will,” she said.
Responding to growing public concerns over perceived bias in candidate selection, the LASIEC chairman debunked the notion that candidates had already been chosen ahead of the elections.
“LASIEC has not selected any candidate. That narrative is false and misleading. I encourage all eligible voters to come out and vote for their preferred candidates without fear or bias,” she clarified.
Justice Okikiolu-Ighile also emphasized the importance of civic responsibility and active participation in the electoral process. She urged voters to remain at polling units after casting their ballots to witness the counting process, which she described as a vital step in upholding transparency.
“Don’t just vote and leave. Stay and see your vote counted. That is part of your right as a citizen.”
In a marked departure from previous election practices, the LASIEC boss revealed that members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) will not be used as ad hoc staff during the elections.
She explained that this decision was informed by past experiences and a renewed commitment to ensuring greater electoral integrity.
“We are exploring other options to recruit responsible and well-trained individuals who will serve without compromise. This is part of our strategy to build public confidence.”
On matters of security, Justice Okikiolu-Ighile reassured Lagosians that adequate measures have been taken to safeguard the electoral process.
She disclosed that all security agencies, including the Nigerian Navy, will be actively deployed on election day, with a minimum of four personnel assigned to each polling unit.
“Security will not be an issue. We are working in synergy with all relevant security agencies to maintain law and order before, during, and after the elections.”
To promote peace and neutrality, she announced that all 15 participating political parties would be required to sign a Peace Accord. Additionally, all LASIEC staff will take a neutrality oath to demonstrate the commission’s impartial stance.
FURTHER READING
- CWO Welcomes New Members, Children Receive Christ
- Senate Sets July 4–5 for Zonal Hearings on Constitution Review
- Tinubu Condemns Plateau Killings, Orders Swift Justice
“We want to lead by example. Charity begins at home,” she stated firmly.
Justice Okikiolu-Ighile concluded by urging all Lagosians to take ownership of the democratic process by participating actively in the elections.
“Every vote counts. But that begins with showing up. LASIEC is ready. The rest is up to the people.”
Watch video of the week
