Lagos State Imposes Movement Restrictions For Local Government Elections On 12 July 2025.
Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State Police Command has announced a comprehensive restriction on vehicular and pedestrian movement across the state to ensure a smooth and secure local government election process on Saturday, 12 July 2025. The measure, which will be in effect from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., aims to facilitate a hitch-free electoral exercise across all 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
According to a statement by CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, the restrictions will apply to all roads and waterways within the state’s jurisdiction. The move is designed to enable the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) to distribute electoral materials efficiently and ensure the integrity of the voting process. The police have also deployed a significant number of personnel, in collaboration with other security agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), to maintain order and safety at polling units and collation centres.
To uphold the provisions of the Electoral Act, additional measures have been introduced. Police escorts and armed security aides are strictly prohibited from accompanying their principals to polling units or collation centres to prevent any undue influence or intimidation. The use of sirens and covered number plates in the vicinity of polling stations is also banned. However, exemptions have been granted for essential services, including medical emergency responders, accredited LASIEC officials, and media practitioners covering the election.
Commissioner of Police Mr Olohundare Jimoh emphasised the importance of these measures in ensuring a peaceful and orderly election. He urged residents to comply with the restrictions and cooperate with security agencies to maintain a safe environment for voters. “The command is committed to ensuring the safety, security, and peaceful conduct of the elections,” he stated, adding that voters and political stakeholders should adhere to electoral rules to guarantee a fair process.
The elections, which will see candidates vying for chairmen and councillor positions across Lagos, are expected to be keenly contested, with 14 political parties participating. The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are considered the major frontrunners. The restrictions follow a precedent set during previous elections, such as the 2021 local government polls, which also saw movement curbs to ensure a seamless process.
Residents have been advised to plan their activities accordingly, with the Lagos State Government assuring the public that the measures are temporary and aimed at fostering a conducive environment for democratic participation. The police have also warned that any attempts to disrupt the electoral process will be met with strict enforcement of the law.
This temporary restriction underscores Lagos State’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of the electoral process while prioritising the safety and security of its residents during this critical democratic exercise.
