On Saturday, July 12, voters across Lagos State will have a chance to participate in one of the most critical expressions of democratic responsibility—the local government elections. Though often overshadowed by the buzz of presidential or gubernatorial contests, these elections carry enormous weight. They determine the kind of leadership that will directly impact daily life—from basic sanitation to education, health care, and local infrastructure.

Despite over 6.5 million eligible voters in the last local elections in 2021, voter turnout barely crossed 11 percent. This indifference highlights a troubling disconnect between the electorate and a tier of government closest to the people. Yet, it is at the local level where governance becomes tangible, personal, and immediate.

Every four years, under the stewardship of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), Lagosians elect leaders for the 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), as well as councillors representing electoral wards. These officials are entrusted with delivering essential public services and driving community-focused development.

Reforms Aimed at Restoring Trust in the Electoral Process

Ahead of this year’s polls, LASIEC has implemented significant reforms to foster inclusivity, transparency, and efficiency. A notable improvement includes the expansion of polling units to 13,325 locations across 376 wards, a move designed to reduce congestion and improve voter access.

The election will also deploy the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), a cutting-edge biometric tool that verifies voter identity using facial or fingerprint data. This technology aims to curb impersonation and ensure seamless accreditation. Results from polling units will be digitally transmitted in real time, bolstering confidence in the integrity of the process.

LASIEC has also prioritised vulnerable groups—elderly citizens, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities—by assigning voter assistants and creating protocols to guarantee their smooth and dignified participation.

These steps underscore a strong institutional commitment to ensuring that every vote counts and every voter is respected, regardless of age, gender, or physical ability.

More Than a Vote: A Chance to Define Leadership and Accountability

Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, Lagos has consistently served as a beacon of electoral credibility. The 2021 elections, by most accounts, were peaceful and well-managed. This year, stakeholders, from civil society groups to electoral observers, are hoping to see even greater public engagement.

Among the 19 political parties participating in the election, voters have a wide spectrum of choices. The power lies not in how many names appear on the ballot, but in how many citizens show up to vote.

Eligible Lagosians are encouraged to locate their polling units ahead of time, prepare valid Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and turn out early on election day. Upon arrival, trained electoral officers will guide voters through the process—starting with biometric accreditation using BVAS, followed by the issuance of two ballot papers: one for Chairman and another for Councillor.

In the privacy of the voting booth, each voter will leave a simple thumbprint—a profound act that reaffirms the authority of the people over their government. Whether voters choose to remain as observers or quietly head home, their role in strengthening democracy is significant.

Security and Stability: A Peaceful Poll Is Everyone’s Duty

To ensure safety throughout the election, the Lagos State Government has intensified security preparations in collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies. A multi-layered security network comprising patrol teams, surveillance units, and rapid-response squads will be strategically deployed across the state, especially in areas considered potential flashpoints.

Citizens are urged to conduct themselves peacefully and respect the rules of engagement. Democracy flourishes where civility prevails, and the success of the elections depends on the collective will of the people to participate with honour and responsibility—regardless of party lines or ideological divides.

Why Local Elections Matter More Than Ever

Local government leaders are pivotal actors in the implementation of public policies. From managing waste to overseeing primary schools and health centres, their decisions directly affect the quality of life in neighbourhoods. With the constitutional emphasis on local government autonomy and fiscal independence, these elected leaders are increasingly responsible for prudent resource management and responsive governance.

This election, therefore, is not just a bureaucratic routine—it is a watershed moment. It is a rare chance for Lagosians to decide what kind of leadership they want at the grassroots: leadership that is ethical, competent, and community-focused.

Quoting the political thinker Jean-Jacques Rousseau, “As soon as any man says of the affairs of the State, ‘What does it matter to me?’ the State may be given up for lost.” That indifference is what undermines democracy from within.

The Road Ahead Begins at the Polls

As voting takes place in polling booths from Agege to Epe, Badagry to Lekki, it is not just names being marked on paper—it is the collective vision of Lagosians being translated into leadership. Every ballot cast represents a voice, a dream, a commitment to the community.

True change does not start with lofty rhetoric or top-down decrees. It begins with citizens taking ownership of the democratic process, one vote at a time. When people participate in choosing their local leaders, they send a message that governance must reflect the will, needs, and aspirations of the people.

So, on July 12, walk to your polling unit not just as a voter, but as a stakeholder in the future of Lagos. Let it be remembered that when the call to duty came, Lagosians answered—not with silence, but with action.