While there were issues of voter apathy across the country, violence was prevalent in some states, including Lagos.
Olusegun Agbaje, the resident electoral commissioner in Lagos State, has condemned attacks recorded at many polling units in the state during the Saturday polls.
While there were issues of voter apathy across the country, violence was prevalent in some states, including Lagos.
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) had said inadequate security presence across polling units (across the states in the south-south, south-west, and north-west) contributed to attacks recorded during the governorship and state houses of assembly elections.
Suspected thugs wearing masks attacked polling units at ward D, Igando/Ikotun area of Lagos state, according to a report by TheCable.
Speaking at the Lagos INEC headquarters on Sunday, Agbaje expressed shock over the reported issues of voter intimidation, violence and ballot box snatching in the state.
“It is very strange that at this time in Nigeria, we still see elections as a do-or-die affair. An election should not be seen as a do-or-die affair,” Agbaje said.
“Our role is to midwife election and we expect politicians to collaborate with us to do a good job. The issue of snatching ballot boxes is not good at all. Even if it is happening, it shouldn’t happen in Lagos.
“Lagos state is the number one state in Nigeria. I don’t expect we should have violence in the state. It is not supposed to happen. We should be an example for others to follow.”
Agbaje said he was also being threatened by some unknown persons due to the election in the state.
“Personally, I have had experience in this election. I have been threatened. Those who have threatened me; it is not going to happen. I pray every day. No harm comes against me. Those threatening me should know this.”