Desmond Elliot rejects Lagos APC primary outcome,alleges intimidation

Actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot has rejected the result of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Surulere 1 constituency, citing widespread intimidation and denial of access for his supporters during the voting process.

The primary, which took place on May 20 at the Paddington Mini Stadium on Western Avenue, was won by his main opponent, Bakarat Bakare. However, Elliot, who has represented the constituency since 2015, has dismissed the outcome as unfair.

Speaking shortly after the result was announced, Elliot alleged that his supporters were barred from entering the venue despite repeated appeals to electoral officials. He described the exercise as compromised and subsequently announced his withdrawal from the race.

“My supporters were prevented from gaining access to the venue despite our complaints to the officials,” Elliot said. He further accused unidentified individuals of intimidating his supporters at the polling ground.

Videos circulating online show the lawmaker being met with chants from some party members as he made his way out of the venue.

Elliot was first elected into the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015 and went on to secure successive terms in 2019 and 2023. He was seeking a fourth term in office.

The controversy has since triggered reactions across political circles, with the conduct of the primary and its outcome continuing to generate debate among party faithful and observers.