The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has issued a stern warning ahead of Saturday’s local government elections, declaring that any incident of ballot box snatching will lead to a by-election in the affected area.
LASIEC Chairman, Justice Bola Okikiolu-Ighile (retd.), made the announcement on Thursday during a press briefing held at Tripple C Event Centre in Sabo, Yaba.
She assured Lagosians of the commission’s preparedness to deliver credible polls across all 57 local government areas and local council development areas (LCDAs).
“There will be by-elections if a ballot box is snatched anywhere,” Okikiolu-Ighile stated in response to questions from journalists. “While we don’t pray for such to happen, we will not count any election that is marred by such an incident. A fresh poll will be held in that council.”
The retired judge reiterated the commission’s zero tolerance for electoral malpractice and called on political actors to conduct themselves peacefully.
She added that LASIEC has put in place adequate logistical and security arrangements to ensure a free and fair election.
