The July 12 Local Government elections in Lagos State were held under generally peaceful conditions in Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
Beyond the relatively peaceful conduct, voter turnout was notably appreciable at the locations visited by PREMIUM TIMES, even in the face of the near-total political dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).”
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With barely one or two opposition candidates contesting across both the chairmanship and councillorship positions, the polls in Lekki were largely a one-party affair.
Yet, this did little to dampen public participation, as residents came out in notable numbers to cast their votes, demonstrating both loyalty and interest in the grassroots democratic process.
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Voting begins late but ends peacefully
Former Chairman of Lekki LCDA, Olaitan Ogidan, commended the turnout, even though the election started late in some parts due to transportation delays.
“There were some early challenges, but the turnout has been very encouraging,” he said. “People understand that local government is where real change starts. This is the government closest to the people.”
Mr Ogidan stressed that local elections matter more than many realise, because they directly impact daily life—from roads to schools, to waste management and health care.
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“This is why residents come out for this election more than others. They know the chairman and councilors are the ones they can approach easily with their problems,” he added.
One-party election, but not a silent one
In what observers described as a largely uncontested race, the APC stood unopposed in most wards. The few opposition names on the ballot were barely visible, and most polling units featured only APC banners, posters, and agents.
According to APC chieftain Are Oluwakemi, a senior legislative aide and one of the party’s leaders in the area, no opposition party fielded a candidate for the chairmanship position in Lekki LCDA.
“This is the only council in Lagos State without a serious opposition. Yet, the support we are seeing today is massive. Our people know what we’ve done—and they trust us to continue,” he said.
Mr Are listed ongoing development projects like the Lekki Coastal Road, renovated schools, youth empowerment schemes, and care for the elderly as reasons for the party’s popularity.
“Our chairman and councilors have carried everyone along. That’s why the people are responding with their votes,” he added. “And come 2027, Lekki will again deliver strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Voters speak
Despite the lack of competitive options on the ballot, many voters said they came out because they wanted to fulfill their civic duty and support leaders who had delivered on their promises.
“I wish there were more candidates to choose from, but I still came to vote,” said Adebayo Yusuf, a 35-year-old resident. “At least it shows that I support the people working for our area.”
Another voter, Olufunke Akintola, said: “Even if it’s just one party contesting, I still have the right to say yes or no. I came to vote because local government affects everything in our daily lives.”
Traditional endorsement
The Onilekki of Lekki, Abdulhasim Ogunbeku, also voted and expressed satisfaction with the voter turnout.
READ ALSO: Lagos LG Polls: APC candidate decries late commencement of exercise in Alimosho
“This election shows that our people care deeply about their community,” the royal father said. “Local government is the foundation of governance, and I believe the results will reflect the people’s will.”
The polls in Lekki LCDA may have lacked competition, but it did not lack public interest.
Voters showed up, made their voices heard, and affirmed the importance of grassroots governance.
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