NNPP Explains Absence from Lagos Local Government Election

The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has explained its absence from Saturday’s local government council election in Lagos State, citing internal setbacks and limited preparation time as reasons for its non-participation.

The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) is conducting elections across the 20 constitutionally recognised local government areas and 37 local council development areas (LCDAs) in the state.

In a statement issued by the NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ogini Olaposi, the party described its failure to field candidates as “regrettable but necessary,” noting that internal challenges hindered its ability to organise effective campaigns.

“We regret to inform all members of our great party that it is indeed most unfortunate and regrettable that despite the double victory judgments we received, we could not put our house in order for effective campaigns and participation,” Olaposi said.

He noted that this marks the first time since the party’s founding in 2001 by Dr Boniface Aniebonam that it would not feature in a local government election in Lagos.

Olaposi, however, urged supporters not to lose faith, stating that the major issues of party logo and leadership had been resolved, paving the way for a stronger showing in future elections.

“Though we are not on the ballot this time, the leadership has encouraged members and supporters to lend their support to political parties whose ideologies align with those of the NNPP,” he added.

According to LASIEC, 15 out of the 28 registered political parties in Nigeria are participating in the local government elections.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the most represented, fielding candidates in all 57 local councils, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party are also contesting in several councils.

The NNPP’s absence from the poll is seen as a setback for the party’s ambitions in Lagos, but party officials maintain that the focus now is on strengthening internal structures ahead of future political contests.