The Chairman of Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission, Hon. Justice Ayotunde Philips, has advocated for inclusivity mechanisms for women, youths, Persons with Disabilities and other vulnerable population in the political parties’ activities and processes, so that the democratic space could be further widened.

She stated this at the Commission’s headquarters during a strategic consultation parley with Chairmen and Secretaries of registered Political Parties in Lagos, organised to rub minds on the pathway to an all-inclusive and peaceful electioneering process.

The Chairman, who was represented at the meeting by a LASIEC Commissioner, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, reassured the party Chieftains of the commitment of the Commission to remain focused on the goal of delivering free, fair and credible elections, adding that the meeting will consider the “Guidelines for Y2021 Local Council Elections” coming up on the 24th of July, 2021.

“We shall continue to implement all activities on schedule according to the timetable and shall operate within the ambit of the law”, she said.

Justice Phillips also stressed that the LASIEC shall continue to build a strong partnership with critical stakeholders, the civil societies, media, political parties, security agencies, NGOs, community/religious leaders, market associations and other interest groups in ensuring that the commission has credible polls.

The Secretary of All Progressive Congress (APC), Lanre Ogunyemi, charged Political Parties to work with LASIEC in the area of voter education and enlightenment to stem the tide of voter apathy, political thuggery and violent conduct before, during and after the election, while the Chairman of People’s Democratic (PDP) in Lagos State, Engr. Adedeji Doherty and Mrs. Temilola Akinade of the National Rescue Mission (NRM) called for the reduction and abolition of nomination fees for women contestants.

The parley had in attendance representatives from 18 registered parties including the Executive Council of the Lagos State Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and the top echelon of the Commission.