LASIEC Reaffirms Commitment To Transparent Elections Amid PDP Allegations.
The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has strongly refuted claims by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that it unjustly disqualified candidates ahead of the local government elections scheduled for 12 July 2025. In a statement issued on Tuesday, LASIEC addressed concerns raised by the PDP regarding the screening and validation process, asserting its dedication to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections.
The PDP had accused LASIEC of irregularities, unfair practices, and administrative negligence during the candidate validation exercise that began on 26 June 2025. Specifically, the party claimed that several of its members’ forms, which were duly submitted and acknowledged, were reported as “missing” by the commission. The PDP described these claims as “highly suspicious” and a potential attempt to disenfranchise its candidates, warning that such actions threatened the credibility of the upcoming elections.
In response, LASIEC clarified that no candidates had been unjustly disqualified. The commission explained that the screening process was designed to ensure compliance with electoral guidelines and that any issues with documentation were being addressed transparently. Following a closed-door meeting with the PDP’s State Secretary, Honourable Soji Orioye, LASIEC agreed to allow affected candidates to return for screening on 2 July 2025, demonstrating its willingness to resolve disputes amicably.
“We are committed to upholding the integrity of the electoral process,” a LASIEC spokesperson said. “Our actions are guided by fairness and accountability, and we will not tolerate any attempts to undermine the democratic process. We urge all parties to cooperate as we work towards a credible election.”
The controversy comes as Lagos prepares for highly anticipated local government polls, with 12 political parties, including the PDP, All Progressives Congress (APC), and Labour Party (LP), fielding candidates. The validation process, which began last week, has seen other parties, such as the African Action Congress (AAC), also call for LASIEC to ensure a level playing field and prevent voter intimidation or electoral malpractice.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who inaugurated the LASIEC team earlier this year, has repeatedly emphasised the importance of credible elections for sustainable development. During the swearing-in of the commission’s chairman, Justice Bola Okikiolu Ighile (rtd), in January 2025, he urged the team to uphold the principles of democracy and good governance.
As the election date approaches, LASIEC has reiterated its commitment to engaging with all stakeholders to ensure a smooth and transparent process. The commission has called on political parties and candidates to adhere to electoral guidelines and work collaboratively to maintain peace and order during the polls.
The resolution of the PDP’s concerns and LASIEC’s proactive measures are expected to bolster public confidence in the electoral process, as Lagosians prepare to cast their votes in what promises to be a closely contested election.