Actor-turned-lawmaker Desmond Elliot has alleged intimidation and political pressure ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries for the Lagos State House of Assembly scheduled for May 20.
Elliot, who is seeking a fourth term representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, claimed that some of his supporters within the local government structure were dismissed as part of efforts to weaken his political base ahead of the contest.
The lawmaker also alleged that his official security detail had been withdrawn, a development he described as troubling amid heightened political tension surrounding the primaries.
Despite the challenges, Elliot called for a transparent and credible direct primary process, noting that the method had received approval from President Bola Tinubu as part of efforts to strengthen internal democracy within the party.
His main challenger, lawyer Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, has reportedly gained significant support from influential APC stakeholders and political groups within Surulere.
Observers say Odunuga-Bakare’s campaign has received backing from political allies associated with Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, as well as local mobilization groups pushing for a new political direction in the constituency.
Her declaration event reportedly attracted large crowds, fueling speculation that grassroots support within the constituency may be shifting ahead of the primary election.
Adding to the political drama, reports also indicate that Elliot’s campaign director has defected to support Odunuga-Bakare, a move analysts say could signal deeper fractures within the incumbent’s political network.
The unfolding contest has become one of the most closely watched local political battles in Lagos State, reflecting broader internal competition within the APC as politicians reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political analysts note that Lagos APC primaries often carry significant national attention due to the state’s strategic importance and its influence on broader party dynamics.
The controversy surrounding Elliot’s allegations has also reignited discussions about the fairness of internal party processes, the influence of political godfathers, and the growing intensity of grassroots political competition in Nigeria.
As the primary date approaches, party members and observers are expected to closely monitor developments in Surulere, where the outcome could shape not only local representation but also the balance of influence within Lagos APC structures.
