Lagos, Nigeria – As the much-anticipated Local Government (LG) elections approach, the Lagos State Police Command has announced a revision to the previously declared movement restrictions, now adjusting the curfew hours to 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM on election day.
The announcement, made during a press briefing by the state Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade, followed public concerns about the duration of the initial restriction window. The earlier directive, which proposed a full-day lockdown, had drawn criticism from residents and civil society groups, who cited economic and personal inconveniences.
“We have listened to the concerns of the people and considered the necessity of maintaining both security and civil freedom,” CP Fayoade said. “The revised movement restriction will now be in effect from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM on election day. This window is designed to secure the electoral process while allowing Lagosians some flexibility afterward.”
The local government elections, scheduled for this Saturday, are a key part of the democratic process in Nigeria’s commercial capital, involving the selection of chairmen and councillors across the 20 local government areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of the state.
Security agencies across the state have ramped up their visibility, with joint patrols by the police, military, and paramilitary units seen in several parts of Lagos ahead of the polls. The Commissioner emphasized that the adjusted movement restrictions will apply to all residents, except those on essential duties—including medical personnel, journalists with proper identification, electoral officers, and security personnel.
“We will not tolerate any form of election disruption or public disorder,” CP Fayoade warned. “The police and our sister agencies are fully prepared to ensure a peaceful and credible election process. We urge all residents to cooperate with security operatives and respect the new movement window.”
INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) and LASIEC (Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission) have assured the public of adequate logistical arrangements and transparent conduct of the polls. Voter materials have reportedly been distributed to various LGAs, and electoral officers are undergoing final briefings.
Meanwhile, civic groups and political analysts have welcomed the decision to adjust the curfew hours, noting that it strikes a better balance between ensuring voter safety and minimizing disruptions to daily life. “It’s a sensible compromise,” said Bola Ayodele, a policy analyst with the Centre for Civic Engagement. “Encouraging voter turnout requires not just security but also empathy for the socio-economic realities people face.”
As Lagos gears up for another test of grassroots democracy, the focus remains on peaceful participation and credible outcomes. The police have also released hotlines for residents to report any cases of electoral malpractice or violence.
With just days to go, all eyes remain on Lagos—Nigeria’s largest city—hoping the elections will serve as a model of order and transparency for the rest of the country.
Follow us on all social media platforms @dailyquery for news and analyses around the globe.
