The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has formally presented Certificates of Return to the newly elected Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councillors across the state’s 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), in what has been hailed as a landmark moment for grassroots democracy.
The event, which took place at the LASIEC headquarters in Sabo, Yaba, marked the formal conclusion of the 2025 local government elections and the official transition to a new democratic cycle.
In her address, LASIEC Chairman, Hon. Justice Ayobode Okikiolu-Ighile (Rtd.), described the ceremony as a significant milestone reflecting the success of months of civic engagement and institutional dedication. She noted that voter turnout rose to 24% in 2025, compared to just 10% in the 2021 polls , a result of sustained voter education, effective use of media, and improved logistics.
She also highlighted innovations like the increase in polling units from 8,000 to 13,325 and the deployment of shuttle vehicles to ensure voter accessibility, which contributed to a smoother and more inclusive process.
“This event is not just ceremonial; it signifies the beginning of a new democratic cycle, where responsibility must be matched with purposeful leadership,” she said.
APC Sweeps Majority Seats — Except One
The All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a sweeping victory in the election, winning all 57 chairmanship seats and 375 of the 376 councillorship positions. However, in a historic shift, PDP’s Babatunde Dosunmu won in Ward D, Yaba LCDA becoming the only non-APC councillor-elect in the entire cycle.
The LASIEC Chairman commended the role of security agencies, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and observers in ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and well-managed election across the state.
Justice Okikiolu-Ighile reminded the newly elected officials of the weight of the trust placed in them by the electorate, urging them to lead with transparency, development-oriented governance, and inclusivity.
“The certificates you hold today are symbols of trust. Now is the time to deliver on promises and uplift your communities,” she charged.
The new leaders are expected to assume office after the expiration of the current administration on July 26, 2025.
Key Highlights:
Certificates of Return presented to elected Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, and Councillors.
APC won 57 Chairmanship and 375 Councillorship positions; PDP secured 1 (Ward D, Yaba LCDA).
Voter turnout increased from 10% (2021) to 24% (2025).
Polling units expanded from 8,000 to 13,325 for better accessibility.
LASIEC deployed shuttle vehicles to assist voters and ensure inclusivity.
The election was peaceful, with commendation from observers and stakeholders. Elected leaders urged to provide inclusive governance, infrastructure, and social justice.
New administrations will commence July 26, 2025.
With this transition, LASIEC reaffirms Lagos State’s leadership in transparent local governance, setting a new standard for democratic excellence in Nigeria.
