As the Local Government elections commenced in Lagos State on Saturday, several residents in the Ikosi-Isheri area of Kosofe Local Government expressed disappointment over being unable to vote, citing lack of voter cards and poor awareness of the registration process.
A visit to a residential compound in the area revealed indifference among many residents. One woman, who was seen doing her laundry, said in Pidgin English, “I no know when dem do am, I for register.” She explained that she had no idea when or where voter registration or card collection took place.
Others in the compound echoed similar sentiments, stating they were unaware of the registration timeline or how to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). “This LG election good to vote, but I no get voter’s card. My own don loss,” said a man who identified himself as “Oga Electrician.”
The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) is conducting elections across the state’s 20 constitutionally recognized Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas to elect new chairmen and councillors.
While the exercise is aimed at enhancing grassroots governance and service delivery, low voter turnout and widespread apathy have been reported in various areas, with many residents sidelined due to missing documentation or lack of information.
By press time, voting had commenced in some polling units, although delays and logistical issues persisted in others.