Ballot Box Snatching To trigger By-Election In Lagos Says LASIEC

The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has warned that any local government area affected by ballot box snatching during Saturday’s elections will face a by-election.

This was announced by LASIEC Chairman, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (retd.), during a pre-election press conference held in Yaba.

The warning comes just ahead of the local government elections scheduled for July 12, 2025, across the 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas (LCDAs) in the state. The commission said it is fully prepared to deliver a transparent and credible election, stressing that there is no threat capable of halting or postponing the polls.

Justice Okikiolu-Ighile stated that while the commission does not wish for any form of violence or disruption, it will not hesitate to nullify results in any area where ballot boxes are stolen or tampered with, and a new election will be held in that location.

To support this process, the Lagos State Police Command has also ramped up security efforts across the state. Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, said officers will be stationed at strategic points and polling stations to ensure order and safety. He explained that the police had already conducted threat assessments and identified areas that may require additional surveillance.

In line with election day logistics, the police have also announced a restriction on vehicular movement from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. The decision to adjust the restriction window—originally set to begin at 3:00 a.m.—was made to accommodate medical emergencies and people with international travel commitments. Residents are advised to respect the new time frame and cooperate with law enforcement officers to avoid disruptions.

CP Jimoh added that marine police and tactical squads will be deployed to coastal and inland areas to prevent any attempts to hijack the electoral process. He assured the public that no polling unit would be left without adequate security coverage.

LASIEC, in collaboration with the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security, has also worked with other security agencies to map out a plan to deter violence and enforce electoral laws.

The commission urged all political parties and their supporters to maintain peace and ensure that the voting process runs smoothly. Residents were also encouraged to come out and vote peacefully while adhering to election guidelines.

The commission emphasized that it is ready to protect the integrity of the elections and is determined to hold accountable anyone who attempts to compromise the process through ballot snatching or violence.