The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) has come under scrutiny over allegations that the Labour Party’s logo was removed from ballot papers in the Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government election, sparking public concern and accusations of political bias.
Voters and political stakeholders shared images on social media showing ballot papers listing only the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), with no Labour Party (LP) symbol visible.
One voter posted on X, “No Labour Party on the ballot box at Ajeromi Ifelodun,” prompting widespread speculation that the party was being deliberately excluded.
LASIEC Chairperson, Justice Mobolanle Okikiolu Ighile, maintained that no party was barred from participation in the elections, stating that the Commission recognized only the INEC approved LP faction led by Dayo Ekong. She affirmed that LASIEC was operating under court directives and in compliance with party recognition protocol.
However, the Lagos State Labour Party Publicity Secretary, Barrister Adeola Onikoyi accused LASIEC of connivance with APC to compromise the LG polls
“Labour Party fielded candidates for the Local government election in Ajeromi Ifelodun but LASIEC being compromised only indicated APC and PDP on the ballot papers. They are scared of Labour Party winning this election. At no time did Pastor Dayo Ekong ask INEC to omit Labour Party logo because we have candidates contesting election. LASIEC is afraid of OmoBarca’s popularity. We shall meet LASIEC in court for conducting election without Labour Party logo. APC in their usual mischief connived with LASIEC to deny voters of their right to vote. We call for the cancellation of the sham LG election that took place yesterday.” Onikoyi said.
Political analysts note that the absence of LP branding from certain ballots is not unusual where the party has chosen not to field candidates. The confusion arose due to the prominence of LP in previous elections, leading many voters to assume it would have universal participation across all wards and councils.
Prominent Labour Party Chieftain in Ajeromi Ifelodun federal constituency, Hon Francis Barthlomew Chima aka OmoBarca has condemned the disenfranchisement of vast majority of Labour party voters during the recent polls.