The All Progressives Congress party (APC) in Lagos State is set to conduct elections into the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across the state, despite the Supreme Court’s ruling on July 11, 2024.
The Supreme Court had, on July 11, 2024, ruled that the 774 LGAs enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution have the right to operate autonomously. The judgment granted these councils the power to manage their finances, collect revenues, and allocate resources independently, without state government interference.
Newsconnect reports that Lagos APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi had issued a memo to ward chairmen which indicated the party’s decision to proceed with polls for the 37 LCDAs created under the administration of former Governor Bola Tinubu.
Addressing ward leaders during a meeting at the APC secretariat, Ojelabi emphasized the importance of adequate preparation for the elections, which he described as critical for maintaining the party’s dominance. “This election will not be business as usual,” he stated. “It will be highly competitive, fair, and transparent, so we must prepare thoroughly to ensure our party remains victorious.” Ojelabi also categorically added: “elections will be held in 57 lg & LCDA.”
Ojelabi urged all aspirants for chairmanship and councillorship positions to submit their letters of intent before the end of January, underscoring the need for early planning and coordination. He also directed ward chairmen to compile lists of polling unit agents for training ahead of the elections. “Each polling unit must have two agents, and these names should be submitted promptly to be integrated into our system,” he said.
The APC chairman announced that voter registration for Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) would begin in the first quarter of the year. He tasked ward chairmen with forming committees to oversee the exercise, stressing the need for widespread participation.
Ojelabi also revealed that local government and ward-level meetings have been scheduled for January 30 and 31, respectively, to finalize election strategies. “These gatherings are crucial for ensuring we are fully mobilized and ready to deliver results,” he added.
The APC’s move to include the LCDAs in the election raises questions about its adherence to the Supreme Court’s ruling. Critics argue that the decision could be seen as undermining the legal autonomy granted to LGAs, while supporters contend it reflects the realities of governance in Lagos State.
The council elections are expected to test the party’s capacity to balance political pragmatism with the rule of law as it prepares for a competitive and transparent poll.