Residents in parts of Oshodi, Lagos State, have voiced their disappointment over the absence of electoral officials from the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) during the ongoing local government elections.
Chronicles Reporters observed that in at least 10 polling units within Wards E1 and E2 of Oshodi, LASIEC officials were nowhere to be seen as of 11:00 a.m., even though voters and party representatives had been present since as early as 7:00 a.m. to participate in the voting process.
At the affected polling units, many residents and party agents lingered around aimlessly, hoping that electoral officials would eventually arrive and kickstart voting.
Security operatives were seen patrolling the neighborhoods in Hilux vans, apparently to ensure calm and prevent any potential unrest due to the delays.
Speaking to Chronicles Reporters, a frustrated party agent said, “We got here at 7 a.m. to prepare for the election, but up till now, no LASIEC officials have arrived. People are getting fed up and may leave soon.”
Some young residents, meanwhile, appeared unbothered by the situation. Groups of youths were spotted socializing at nearby joints, while others took to the streets to play football, turning the election day into a casual outing.
In Ikeja’s Onigbogbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), particularly in Ward A, the turnout was also significantly low. The sparse participation raised further questions about the legitimacy and public engagement in the electoral process.
The council elections are being conducted to elect new chairpersons and councillors in the 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) spread across Lagos State.
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