Lagos LG Polls: Igbos Disenfranchised in Voting Process – Ohanaeze President

Dr. Solomon Ogbonna Aguene, President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos State, has alleged that Igbos residing in the state are being systematically disenfranchised in the ongoing local government elections held across Lagos on July 12. Speaking from his Ikoyi residence, Aguene expressed concern over what he described as the continued exclusion of Igbos from the electoral and political process in the state.

He claimed that Igbo residents are repeatedly denied the right to vote and be voted for during every election cycle, adding that this exclusion undermines the democratic process. According to him, despite the community’s substantial contributions to Lagos’ economic and political development, Igbos are consistently sidelined when it comes to leadership positions at the local government level.

“There are one or two Igbo persons as Vice Chairmen of Local Governments, but we are largely excluded from contesting for Chairmanship and Councillorship positions,” he said. “This is not just about this election – it happens all the time. It shows that there is no real democracy here, because true democracy promotes equity, justice and fairness.”

Aguene criticized what he described as a system dominated by opportunists who seize power without regard for inclusivity or the welfare of the people. He linked widespread voter apathy in Lagos and across Nigeria to growing public disillusionment, saying many Nigerians no longer see value in voting under a system that fails to represent them.

“Igbos are heavily invested in Lagos and should be allowed to hold positions of responsibility,” he added. “But governance in Nigeria seems reserved for a few, while the majority, including essential workers like journalists and security personnel, are left to struggle with basic survival. The situation in the country is terrible.”