APC Takes Early Lead as Lagos 2025 LG Elections Spark Controversy Over Low Turnout, Alleged Rigging

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The 2025 local government elections in Lagos State have ignited a mix of celebration, controversy, and concern as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) surges ahead in early results amid widespread voter apathy and strong allegations of electoral malpractice.

Held on Saturday, July 12, across Lagos’ 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas, the elections were marked by a strikingly low voter turnout. In many polling units, fewer than 40% of registered voters showed up, with some centers reporting figures as low as 3,700 voters out of more than 10,000 registered. This low participation has raised questions about the legitimacy and effectiveness of grassroots democracy in Nigeria’s most populous and politically influential state.

Despite the underwhelming turnout, APC candidates are dominating the early collation figures. In Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, Seyi Jakande was declared chairman as early as Sunday morning, with several other APC candidates expected to be announced victorious in the coming hours. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised the peaceful conduct of the elections and commended LASIEC officials and security agencies for maintaining order and professionalism throughout the exercise.

However, the election has not been without serious pushback. Opposition parties have strongly rejected the process and its emerging outcomes, accusing the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) of widespread irregularities. The Labour Party described the election as a “complete sham,” citing reports of ballot stuffing, missing names of candidates, and voter suppression in several wards. Party officials claim their candidates were either removed from the ballot or had their votes manipulated.

Similarly, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP) alleged that their supporters were disenfranchised, and in some areas, polling materials arrived late or not at all. Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, criticized the process, demanding the cancellation of the election, especially where voters couldn’t locate their polling units or find their names on the register.

Security was visibly heightened during the exercise, particularly around the LASIEC headquarters in Yaba, where armed security personnel and patrol teams maintained tight surveillance. While this helped ensure a largely peaceful process, critics argue that the heavy security presence created an atmosphere of intimidation, especially in opposition strongholds.

As at the time of this report, full results are still being compiled and the official announcement by LASIEC is expected later today. However, APC leaders have already expressed confidence in sweeping all available seats, a statement that has intensified the backlash from opposition parties, who are now considering legal action and protests.

The 2025 Lagos council polls, while relatively free from violence, have again highlighted systemic issues plaguing Nigeria’s local elections — including low public interest, questions of transparency, and deep political mistrust. As Lagos awaits the official results, the outcome is expected to set the tone for political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Stay with us for verified results, exclusive updates, and reaction from party leaders.