The just-concluded local government elections in Lagos State, held on Saturday, July 22, 2023, marked a significant moment in the state’s political landscape. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a statement released shortly after the polls closed, expressed his profound gratitude to the residents of Lagos for their peaceful and enthusiastic participation in the electoral process. He commended Lagosians for turning out in impressive numbers to exercise their civic duty, highlighting their orderly conduct as a clear testament to the state’s well-earned reputation as the “Centre of Excellence.” The governor’s message underscored the importance of citizen engagement in strengthening democratic processes and shaping the future of the state.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s message specifically acknowledged the diverse segments of Lagos society that contributed to the smooth and successful execution of the elections. He recognized the active participation of youths, elders, market women, artisans, and professionals, emphasizing that their collective involvement was crucial to upholding the democratic ideals upon which the state is built. By exercising their right to vote, these groups demonstrated their commitment to participatory governance and reinforced the principle that leadership is ultimately shaped by the active engagement of the people. The Governor’s acknowledgment reflected the inclusive nature of the electoral process and the importance of diverse voices in shaping local governance.
Beyond the citizenry, the governor also extended his appreciation to the various stakeholders who played vital roles in ensuring the credibility and security of the elections. He commended the professionalism, dedication, and commitment exhibited by security agencies, electoral officials, and members of the media. Their combined efforts, he noted, were instrumental in creating a safe and credible environment for the elections to take place. The security personnel maintained order and ensured the safety of voters and electoral materials, while the electoral officials diligently oversaw the voting process, and the media played a crucial role in disseminating information and providing transparent coverage of the elections.
As the state awaited the official results from the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), Governor Sanwo-Olu appealed to all candidates and political stakeholders to uphold peace and order. He urged them to remain calm, respectful, and law-abiding throughout the process, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the peaceful atmosphere that characterized the election day itself. This call for continued peace and respect underscored the governor’s commitment to ensuring a smooth transition following the elections and reinforced the importance of upholding democratic principles even in the face of potential disagreements or anxieties surrounding the outcome.
The governor further emphasized that the peaceful conduct of the elections was a significant stride towards bolstering grassroots democracy in Lagos. He framed the elections as not just a one-time event but a crucial step in an ongoing process of building a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous Lagos, a vision that he frequently articulates as the collective goal for the state. By emphasizing the connection between peaceful elections and the broader goals of development and prosperity, Governor Sanwo-Olu positioned the successful conduct of the local government elections as a foundational element in achieving the long-term aspirations for Lagos State.
The local government elections took place across all 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of Lagos State. These local councils represent the grassroots level of governance, directly impacting the lives of residents in their respective areas. The elections provided an opportunity for citizens to choose representatives who will manage local affairs, address community needs, and contribute to the overall development of their localities. The successful execution of the elections across these numerous LGAs and LCDAs underscored the logistical complexity of the undertaking and further highlighted the significance of the peaceful and orderly participation of the electorate. The elections served as a vital mechanism for local representation and community development, crucial for the effective functioning of a vibrant and democratic society like Lagos State.
