The Lagos State chapters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Action Peoples Party (APP) have rejected the results of Saturday’s local government elections, describing the exercise as a monumental fraud that undermines democratic principles.
Their rejection came on the heels of the announcement by the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) swept all 57 chairmanship seats and secured 375 out of 376 councillorship positions.
Speaking with journalists on Sunday, PDP Deputy Chairman for Lagos West, Sunday Olaifa, described the poll as a “mockery of democracy,” alleging widespread irregularities, vote buying, and result manipulation in favour of the APC.
“The PDP in Lagos State rejects in totality the outcome of the July 12 council elections. It is nothing but a shameful exercise riddled with manipulation and inducement. The APC didn’t win that election. In fact, the election never held in many polling units,” Olaifa claimed.
He cited Ajao Estate in Isolo LCDA as one of the areas where elections allegedly failed to hold in over 22 of 36 polling units due to the absence of LASIEC officials.
Olaifa also accused LASIEC of conducting the polls under a flawed process, alleging that several opposition candidates were not cleared to contest, further compromising the integrity of the exercise.
“By 2027, the people will reject the APC at all levels, starting from the grassroots. What played out during this council poll is a reflection of the ruling party’s desperation and dwindling popularity,” he added.
On her part, the Lagos APP Chairman, Abiola Adeyemi, described the conduct of the election as the “worst ever” in the history of the state, alleging deliberate exclusion of APP candidates and the absence of the party’s logo on ballot papers in some areas.
“This election was neither free, fair, nor credible. In Badagry, our logo was missing on the ballot, and many of our duly nominated candidates were disqualified for flimsy and unjustifiable reasons. Even LASIEC officials arrived late in numerous polling units,” she said.
Adeyemi criticised LASIEC for allegedly ignoring complaints and appeals filed by political parties ahead of the poll.
“The commission must return to the drawing board. It failed woefully in conducting a credible election. Stakeholders are utterly disappointed,” she said.
Reacting to the allegations, LASIEC Chairman, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (retd.), admitted that some areas experienced late arrival of officials and materials due to logistics issues, which she claimed were “quickly addressed.”
Despite assurances from LASIEC, opposition parties are insisting on a thorough review of the exercise and calling for electoral reforms to restore public confidence in local government polls across the state.
'
'
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
