Despite the Lagos State Government’s preparations for Saturday’s local government elections, residents across the state largely stayed away from polling units, citing a deep loss of confidence in the electoral system.
Peak Newspaper Nigeria observed that several neighbourhoods in the state were unusually quiet throughout the morning and afternoon, with many residents choosing to stay indoors or loiter near their homes rather than participate in the vote.
The widespread voter apathy, according to residents, was driven by longstanding disillusionment with the credibility of elections, particularly at the grassroots level.
Mr. Godfrey Johnson, a 54-year-old resident of Alimosho, captured the public mood: “What’s the point in voting when our votes don’t count? We’ve lost faith in the system. Until credible elections become a reality, people will continue to opt out.”
His sentiment was echoed by several others who spoke with PLATFORM TIMES. Many expressed frustration over repeated electoral irregularities, alleging that results are often predetermined regardless of voter input.
Mr. Taofeek Sumonu, 41, a resident of Surulere, noted that low turnout in local government elections has become the norm. “This has become routine.
People tend to ignore local government elections. It’s the governorship and presidential contests that attract real attention and participation,” he said.
Although electoral officers were present at various polling stations and materials arrived in some places without significant delay, most units recorded only a trickle of voters. In some cases, officials waited for hours before the first ballot was cast.
Observers say the poor turnout underscores a troubling disconnect between the electorate and the third tier of government, which is constitutionally responsible for delivering critical services at the grassroots.
Civil society groups and political analysts have repeatedly called for reforms to strengthen local elections and rebuild public trust in the system.
However, Saturday’s polls served as yet another reminder of the growing voter disengagement in Nigeria’s democratic process—particularly at the local level.
