The All Progressives Congress (APC) appears to be coasting to victory in the just-concluded local government elections across Lagos State, with early results showing the party in the lead across several key councils. The polls, which ended at about 3pm, were marked by low voter turnout, even as results sorting continued across the 57 local government areas and local council development areas (LCDAs).
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who cast his vote at Polling Unit 006, St. Stevens Nursery and Primary School in Adeniji-Adele, acknowledged the logistical hiccups that delayed the early stages of the election. Speaking with journalists after voting, Sanwo-Olu admitted the process began slower than expected but expressed optimism about the overall conduct of the election.
By 4pm, unofficial results indicated the APC was leading in several areas, including Yaba, Somolu, Bariga, Ikeja, and Agege, with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) trailing behind and the Labour Party (LP) maintaining a distant third in most polling units. The momentum in Adeniji-Adele, where the governor voted, further highlighted APC’s strong showing, signaling possible dominance across the state.
In Yaba LCDA, APC Chairmanship candidate Adebayo Adefuye praised the peaceful and orderly nature of the voting process. He described the election as smooth, free, and fair, adding that local government elections remain crucial as they directly impact grassroots development. Adefuye emphasized that local polls are more than political events, they are pivotal moments of community decision-making.
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Presenting his post-election vision, Adefuye unveiled an agenda tagged “Yaba tuntun,” meaning “New Yaba,” which he described as a blueprint for transformation and a break from the past. The plan aims to usher in infrastructural renewal, enhanced youth empowerment, and improved community engagement.
Reacting to the Federal Government’s recent push for local government financial autonomy, Adefuye strongly endorsed the reform and applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for driving the policy. He stressed that the autonomy would empower council leaders to execute development plans without undue interference and help councils deliver on their mandate to the people.
As collation continues and results are being declared across more councils, political observers say the APC’s early lead may signal a clean sweep for the ruling party in Lagos. However, critics argue that the low turnout reflects voter apathy and a need for broader engagement to boost democratic participation at the grassroots level.
The final official results are expected to be announced by the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) in the coming hours.