Saturday’s local government elections in Lagos State were marked by widespread voter apathy, with many polling units across the state recording little to no turnout. While the election remained largely peaceful, the general mood was one of indifference and distrust.

Across areas like Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Alimosho, and Ojo, polling centres were practically empty, despite early arrival of election materials in some units. Others faced delays or mix-ups in logistics.

In Ward B, Polling Unit 043 (Ajeromi-Ifelodun), materials arrived by 8:30 am, but very few voters turned up. In contrast, at Polling Unit 003 in Oshodi-Isolo, election materials hadn’t even arrived by 9:27 am. In Isheri Osun’s Ward C, Polling Unit 114, materials were delivered with errors, causing delays.

At Ward A1, Polling Unit 013 along Ikotun-Igando Road, voting was in progress around 10:23 am, but a voter who spoke anonymously expressed concern about possible manipulation. “We’re just going through the motions. We already know the result,” he said.

In Ojo Local Government (Polling Unit 04091, Ward A), voting was also ongoing by 11:22 am, but turnout remained very low.

Residents across Lagos say they no longer believe their votes make a difference.

“What’s the point? Nothing changes,” one voter remarked.

This lack of faith in the system has led many to stay home, a trend that’s becoming increasingly common during local elections.

Adding to the issues were logistical challenges and poor treatment of electoral officials. Some LASIEC (Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission) staff, who spoke on condition of anonymity, complained about low pay and poor coordination.

“We missed our way to the polling unit,” said one official along Ijegun-Ikotun Road. “We chartered a bus, but even the driver didn’t know the route. We’re working with poor pay — and by the time it gets to us, it’s already been slashed.”

Despite the calm and absence of violence, the elections have once again highlighted a deep disconnect between citizens and grassroots governance. Voters are calling for real electoral reforms, while officials urge the public to stay engaged.

Until trust is restored in the system, turnout for local elections in Lagos — and across Nigeria — may continue to dwindle.