Chairman of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission, Justice Ayotunde Philips (rtd), has beckoned the local government authorities to provide secure accommodation for electoral materials across the electoral offices in the state.
Philips, who was by a LASIEC Commissioner, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, during an inspection of electoral offices in the various council areas of Lagos, Tuesday, said it is necessary to ascertain the functionality of equipment and materials ahead of next year’s local government election in the state.
He added that the tour was also to seek a comprehensive report on the physical state of the commission’s offices at the local government headquarters.
“Our electoral materials and equipment are very sensitive; you are expected to provide us with secure accommodation that is congenial for operational efficiency,” he said.
He noted that LASIEC was poised to institutionalise a sustainable electoral process in the state.
“The commission is working tirelessly on revised guidelines that will reflect how we can successfully conduct elections in the present reality of the COVID-19 pandemic, if the situation persists beyond this year.
“As election managers, we are currently exchanging notes with INEC and other countries around the world who are successfully conducting elections in the COVID-19 era.
“The revised document will address the health and safety of voters and election personnel, election planning, electoral participation, voter education and engagement of stakeholders,” Philips added.
Also, the LASIEC Permanent Secretary, Mrs Sinatu Fadipe, stressed the need for safeguarding the LASIEC personnel and equipment.
