By The Editorial Board, The Merit Newspaper
As Lagos State prepares for the 2025 local government elections across its 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), many voters remain sceptical about whether their votes will count. Over the years, local government elections in Nigeria’s commercial hub have been seen as mere formalities, where ruling party candidates emerge victorious regardless of the people’s will. Will 2025 be different, or will it follow the same predictable pattern?
Democracy or Selection?
The electorate in Lagos has long complained that local government elections lack true competition. Many believe that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will sweep all chairmanship and councillor positions, as has been the trend. Critics argue that opposition candidates are often intimidated, disqualified, or outright ignored in the electoral process. The question then arises: Is Lagos truly conducting an election, or are we witnessing a carefully orchestrated political drama?
The Shocking Expectations of Voters
Beyond the usual doubts about fairness, voters in Lagos are setting unexpected and controversial standards for aspirants. In various LGAs and LCDAs, citizens are less concerned about campaign promises and more focused on immediate personal gains. Some of the shocking demands from the electorate include:
Cash-for-Votes Transactions: Many residents expect aspirants to distribute cash and food items before they will consider voting for them. This growing “stomach infrastructure” mentality raises concerns about the integrity of the process.
Local ‘Thugs’ Seeking Recognition: In many areas, political ‘boys’ (street enforcers) see elections as opportunities to gain influence. They expect councillor and chairman aspirants to “settle” them financially or offer them positions in local task forces.
Religious and Ethnic Favoritism: Rather than focusing on competence, some voters are prioritizing candidates from their ethnic or religious backgrounds, intensifying political divisions.
Neglect of Real Governance Issues: Shockingly, many voters are not asking candidates about how they will improve primary healthcare, public schools, and infrastructure. Instead, they are concerned with personal favours and patronage.
Will There Be a Political Earthquake in Lagos?
For the first time in years, Lagosians are beginning to whisper about the possibility of an electoral upset. While many assume the ruling party will dominate, there is growing discontent due to economic hardship, poor local governance, and lack of accountability. Could an independent candidate or a strong opposition challenger disrupt the status quo?
Moreover, there are fears that voter apathy will be at an all-time high. Many young Lagosians believe that their votes won’t make a difference, leading to potential record-low turnout. This lack of enthusiasm could either make rigging easier or open the door for unexpected results if an alternative candidate gains momentum.
A Test for Lagos’ Democracy
The 2025 local government elections in Lagos will be a defining moment. Will it be a true reflection of the people’s will or just another exercise in political recycling? As the campaign season heats up, the battle is not just for votes but for the soul of grassroots democracy in Nigeria’s most powerful state.
The people of Lagos must decide: Will they continue to trade their votes for immediate personal benefits, or will they demand real leadership and accountability from their councillors and chairmen?
