PIUS ADE BABALEYE (PAB)
All is now set for the upcoming Local Government elections in Lagos State, as the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has officially released the timetable. This development marks a crucial phase in grassroots governance—a time when communities have the power to decide who leads them at the most fundamental level of administration.
However, amid the excitement and preparation, one pressing question stares us in the face: Will the party leaders allow the masses to choose their rightful candidates—individuals who will truly serve the people, not just their godfathers?
For far too long, the process of selecting candidates has been dominated by political imposition. Party leaders, in their backroom deals, often anoint their favorites without recourse to the will of the people. This trend has led to the emergence of Local Government officials who are either disconnected from the grassroots or simply unqualified to hold public office. The result? Years of underdevelopment, poor service delivery, and a widening gap between the government and the governed.
As the timetable has been released, it is time for the people to rise and say NO to imposition—from councillorship to chairmanship positions. The masses must demand open, transparent, and participatory primaries that reflect the true aspirations of the communities.
The Local Government is the closest arm of government to the people. It affects daily lives more directly than any other level. Therefore, every community must get it right this time. Let competence, integrity, and a heart for service be the yardsticks—not loyalty to a party chieftain or political godfather.
We call on all democratic stakeholders—civil society, religious leaders, youth groups, market women, artisans, and voters at large—to be vigilant. Let us engage actively in the political process. Let us support only those candidates who emerge through fair and open processes. And let us not shy away from raising our voices when injustice or imposition is attempted.
Democracy only thrives when the people take ownership of it. This election is not just about filling positions; it’s about shaping the future of our communities.
*Let the will of the people prevail!*