Ballot Box Snatching Will Trigger By-Election — LASIEC Warns Ahead of Lagos LG Polls
The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has issued a firm warning that any act of ballot box snatching during the upcoming local government elections on Saturday, July 12, 2025, will result in a by-election in the affected area.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday at the Tripple C Event Centre, Sabo, Yaba, LASIEC Chairman, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (retd.), assured residents of the commission’s readiness to conduct a free, fair, and credible election across all 57 local councils in the state.
“There will be by-elections if a ballot box is snatched anywhere,” Okikiolu-Ighile stated, stressing the commission’s zero tolerance for electoral malpractice. “While we don’t pray for such incidents, it is our duty to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.”
The commission also ruled out the possibility of postponing the elections, reiterating its commitment to transparency and accountability in the democratic process.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command has rolled out extensive security measures to ensure a peaceful election. Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin announced the deployment of 30,000 officers to strategic locations across the state.
To ease concerns about accessibility on election day, the restriction on vehicular movement has been adjusted to start at 6:00 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m., rather than the initially planned 3:00 a.m. start time. Exceptions will be made for medical emergencies and international travel.
Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring a secure environment for voters and electoral officials.
The election, which covers both local government areas and local council development areas, marks a critical moment in Lagos State’s democratic journey.
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