BY-ELECTIONS: LASIEC ENGAGES STAKEHOLDERS, PLEDGES TRANSPARENCY

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BY OWOLABI OLUWADARA

The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) on Thursday reassured stakeholders of its preparedness to conduct credible councillorship by-elections within the state.

These by-elections became necessary due to the demise of two recently elected councillors from Ward C and Ward H of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government and Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), respectively.

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The two councillors passed away shortly after the Local Government Elections on July 12 and their subsequent swearing-in.

LASIEC Chairman, retired Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile, while expressing gratitude to stakeholders for their ongoing support and collaboration, stated that the commission would neither underestimate the yet-to-be-scheduled by-elections nor leave any aspect unaddressed.

Okikiolu-Ighile, who was represented by LASIEC Electoral Commissioner Mr. Samson Ajibade, indicated that the commission is determined to fulfill its mandate of conducting elections that are free, fair, and credible.

She conveyed that the commission received with deep sorrow the news of the untimely deaths of the two newly sworn-in councillors—Mrs. Oluwakemi Sabiu from Ibeju-Lekki LG and Mrs. Zaynab Shotayo from Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA.

“The loss of these two elected councillors has resulted in vacancies that, in accordance with LASIEC Laws and democratic principles, must be filled. Democracy thrives on representation, and the constituents of the affected wards deserve the chance to elect their representatives once more.

“In fulfilling its constitutional obligations, LASIEC has initiated processes that will lead to credible, free, and fair by-elections.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that the aspirations of the populace in the affected wards are expressed through transparent procedures that ensure inclusivity, accountability, and legitimacy,” Okikiolu-Ighile stated.

She emphasized that political parties, security agencies, civil society organizations, the media, traditional leaders, religious figures, and voters all play essential roles in fostering trust and confidence in the electoral process.

“It is solely through your collaboration, vigilance, and commitment to due process that the by-elections can achieve success. As a commission, we will maintain a robust partnership with all key stakeholders and other interest groups to establish a level playing field and equitable access for all participants in the political arena.

“We shall uphold public confidence to ensure that the commission fulfills its statutory responsibilities with transparency and openness,” she remarked.

The chairman noted that the by-elections present yet another opportunity for LASIEC to reinforce democracy at the grassroots level.