LG Elections: Youth Party candidate labels LASIEC as incompetent

The candidate for Eti-Osa Local Government Chairmanship under the Youth Party in Lagos State, Ayodele Adio, has leveled serious allegations of incompetence and political sabotage against the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC). Adio accused LASIEC of various irregularities in the validation process for candidates, such as unspecified demands for documents and making candidates wait without basic facilities. He also claimed that LASIEC's actions are aimed at favoring the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and frustrating opposition parties.

Adio's specific concerns include LASIEC's demand for photocopies of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) of 20 nominees from each candidate, which he says is a violation of the Electoral Act and a ploy to entrap opposition members. Additionally, he criticized the commission for issuing the notice of election only 90 days before the scheduled date, which goes against the Electoral Act, 2022's requirement of a minimum of 150 days' notice.

Moreover, Adio questioned the impartiality of LASIEC's leadership due to the partisan backgrounds of some commissioners, such as Wale Ojora and Rufus Oladele Adekanye, who have both held positions within the APC. He called for the resignation of the current LASIEC chair and commissioners, the cancellation of the validation exercise, and the appointment of new, non-partisan individuals with unblemished records to ensure a free, fair, and transparent democratic process.

Adio's accusations highlight the importance of a neutral electoral body and the need for a level playing field in the upcoming local government elections. The integrity of the electoral process is crucial for fostering public trust and ensuring that the will of the people is reflected in the outcome of the polls. The allegations underscore the necessity for all stakeholders to remain vigilant and advocate for adherence to the rule of law and the principles of fair play in the electoral process.