PDP rejects Lagos council election, alleging vote rigging, ballot stuffing, and voter suppression. The party vows to challenge the results at the tribunal

The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the outcome of the recently concluded local government elections, describing it as a sham and an assault on democracy.

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According to the Lagos State Independent National Electoral Commission (LASIEC), the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured all 57 chairmanship positions and 375 out of 376 councillorship seats. The PDP, however, insists the results were heavily manipulated.

Speaking at a press conference in Alagomeji, Lagos, the chairman of the Forum of Lagos PDP LGA Chairmen, Adegboyega Adegbesan, alleged widespread irregularities and voter intimidation.

“From the onset, it was clear that the APC had no intention of participating in a free and fair electoral contest,” he said. “Ballot papers that were already thumbprinted were carted into polling units in bags.”

Adegbesan also claimed PDP agents were attacked and denied access to collation centres, while results were altered before the conclusion of voting. He accused LASIEC of collaborating in what he called a crude and desperate rigging exercise.

“In some wards, total votes exceeded the number of registered voters,” he added. “In our strongholds, election materials were either delayed or incomplete, frustrating our supporters.”

He commended Lagos residents who turned out to vote despite the chaos and intimidation. “We salute your courage. This is bigger than the PDP. It’s a fight for justice and the survival of democracy.”

Adegbesan confirmed the party would challenge the results in court, armed with video evidence, eyewitness accounts, and official inconsistencies.

The PDP called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society, and international observers to scrutinise LASIEC’s role in the election.

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“We will not recognise this fraudulent election or its so-called winners. The judiciary must now rise to defend the rule of law,” he declared.