(JUST IN) LAGOS LG POLL: VOTE COUNTING BEGINS IN YABA

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Agency report

Vote counting has begun at Polling Unit 024 in Ward B, Makoko, Yaba area of Lagos, signaling the final phase of the 2025 local government elections across the state.

However, the end of voting has been marred by notably low voter turnout, casting doubts on the overall effectiveness and reach of the exercise.

“The lack of voter enthusiasm could impact the credibility and inclusiveness of the exercise,” an election observer noted, reflecting a sentiment shared by many watching the democratic process unfold.

Concerns over low voter turnout persisted on Saturday as officials at Polling Unit 002 in Ward B, Makoko, continued to wait for voters, even as counting had already commenced at nearby units.

Despite a generally peaceful atmosphere across many polling stations, turnout in several parts of Yaba remained significantly below expectations.

At Ward F, Unit 012, located along Iwaya Road, voting was still underway as of press time, with officials noting a turnout far lower than anticipated. Similar reports came from other parts of Iwaya, where Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) officials described the pace of voting as slow throughout the day.

In contrast, Ward G at St. Timothy College presented a more active and organised scene. Voting proceeded smoothly across multiple units—001 through 005—showcasing a glimpse of efficiency despite broader turnout concerns.

While election observers commended the calm and orderly conduct of the election, they raised concerns that the evident voter apathy might affect the perceived legitimacy and inclusiveness of the local government polls.

LASIEC officials continued to urge eligible voters to turn out before the official close of voting at 3 p.m.