22nd October, 2011
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Hon. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire has challenged local governments in the state to ensure that they justify the vote of the people by ensuring that their performance meets the expectation of the people.
Hon. Adefulire, who was speaking with journalists after casting her vote in the Local Council Elections in Lagos today, said that the councils, which is the closest government to the grassroots must complement the effort of the Governor Babatunde Fashola administration by providing the dividends of democracy for the people who elected them, noting that the state government will continue to provide the councils with the necessary support and collaboration for the benefit of all Lagosians.
The Deputy Governor who voted alongside her husband, Magistrate Abiodun Adefulire at their Polling Unit, Ward E in Alimosho Local Government Area, also expressed her delight at the turnout of the people for the election, noting that the method adopted by the Lagos Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) for the elections saves the time spent by would-be voters at the polling centres, while also advising other residents to come out and cast their votes.
“I am satisfied with the turnout of Lagosians, at least from the reports I have received so far, our people are conscious of the closeness of the Local Government to them and understand the need to vote for the candidates of their choice.
“Also, those who are yet to vote should come out and exercise their civic responsibility,†the Deputy Governor stated.
Hon. Adefulire also urged the youths to eschew violence as they go about casting their votes for their preferred candidates, advising them that elections should not be seen as a do or die affair.
She also praised the Officials of Lagos Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) for maintaining peace and orderliness at the voting centre.