Sagamu LGA Elections: Peaceful Exercise Amid Low Voter Turnout As Electorates Share Their Views

The much-anticipated local government elections in Sagamu, Ogun State, held today, November 16, 2024, were marked by a peaceful atmosphere across designated polling units, despite a noticeable low voter turnout.

While the process was largely smooth, the chairmanship candidates from various parties offered differing perspectives on the elections and voter engagement.

Low Turnout Amidst Calm

Observers and voters at polling stations noted that the exercise proceeded without significant hitches, a testament to improved security arrangements and the cooperation of residents. However, the voter apathy seen today has raised concerns among stakeholders, as polling units remained sparsely populated throughout the day.

Candidates React

Ogbeni Afolabi Odulate, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate and outgone chairman of the local government, expressed satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of the elections but lamented the low turnout. Speaking at his polling unit, he remarked, “The people of Sagamu have always supported progress. While the turnout is below expectations, I am confident in the mandate they’ve entrusted to us.”

Comrade Ismail Arikewuyo of the Labour Party (LP) echoed similar sentiments but attributed the low turnout to a lack of robust voter sensitization. “The peace we witnessed today is commendable, but we must do more as leaders to encourage voter participation. Sagamu deserves active involvement in decisions that shape our future,” he said.

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The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Chieftain and Honourable representing Offin, Sagamu 1 State Constituency, Omooba Damilare Mohammed Bello, expressed how he felt disappointed in how electorates were been disenfranchised of their civic rights to vote in many areas. “This election is a pivotal moment for Sagamu. The PDP remains committed to grassroots development, and I am confident the results will reflect the people’s trust in us even though there seems to be no elections in Sagamu,” he stated.

What’s Next?

With the elections concluded peacefully, attention now shifts to the collation and announcement of results. The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has commended the conduct of the electorate and he assures of transparency with the trust the government has in OGSIEC to the final stages.

Stakeholders across Sagamu are hopeful that the eventual winners will prioritize addressing issues of voter apathy, infrastructure, and youth engagement to foster a more inclusive governance process. Results are expected to be announced in the coming hours, setting the stage for the next chapter in Sagamu’s development journey.

Stay tuned with The Eaglesforesight News for updates on this developing story.