Tinubu reportedly shuts down Desmond Elliot 4th term bid as Surulere APC backs new player
Desmond Elliot
A fresh political storm is brewing in Lagos as Desmond Elliot faces a major setback in his bid for a fourth term in the Lagos State House of Assembly, following reported resistance from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and growing opposition within the Surulere political structure.
Multiple sources indicate that high-level lobbying efforts to secure presidential backing for Elliot have failed, signaling a shift in political momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.
Tinubu Rejects Lobbying Efforts for Elliot’s Fourth Term
According to insider accounts, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu repeatedly declined appeals from influential figures sent to advocate for Elliot’s continuation in office.
The reported lobbying efforts allegedly involved:
- A retired military general
- A serving minister
- A senator
- Close political allies of the President
Despite these interventions, Tinubu’s stance remained firm: respect for party democracy and local stakeholder decisions.
Sources say the President emphasised that the final decision should rest with Surulere APC members, not external pressure.
Surulere APC Stakeholders Back Barakat Odunuga-Bakare
While Elliot pushes for continuity, political tides appear to be shifting toward Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, a former aide to Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Key developments include:
- Strong endorsements from APC stakeholders across Surulere wards
- Grassroots mobilization and ward-level consultations
- Calls for gender inclusion and leadership renewal
Several party leaders publicly stated that “it is time for a new representative,” citing Odunuga-Bakare’s experience and leadership credentials.
Internal Party Dynamics and Power Structure at Play
Tinubu reportedly referenced the influence of Femi Gbajabiamila, described as a key political figure in Surulere, in reinforcing the decision not to override local consensus.
The President is said to have stressed that:
- Direct primaries will determine the candidate
- Popular support, not political imposition, should decide outcomes
- Party unity must be preserved through transparent processes
This position reflects a broader attempt to avoid internal party crises ahead of 2027.
READ ALSO
Sanwo-Olu endorses Obafemi Hamzat for 2027 Lagos Governorship
Criticism Trails Elliot’s 12-Year Representation
Elliot, who has represented Surulere 1 for three consecutive terms, is now facing increasing criticism from constituents and advocacy groups.
The Surulere Accountability Front (SAF) described his tenure as:
- “12 years of poor representation”
- Marked by political instability
- Lacking youth engagement and leadership inspiration
The group insists that constituents are demanding change, signaling a potential end to Elliot’s long-standing dominance in the constituency.
Elliot’s Political Journey and Rising Challenges
Interestingly, President Tinubu reportedly revealed that Elliot’s entry into politics dates back to intervention by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who facilitated his acceptance into Lagos politics ahead of the 2015 elections.
Since then, Elliot has:
- Won three consecutive terms
- Built visibility as a celebrity-politician
- Maintained influence within the Surulere APC structure
However, current resistance suggests a shift from personality-driven politics to performance-based evaluation.
What Happens Next? All Eyes on APC Primaries
Despite setbacks, sources say Elliot is still exploring last-minute political options, including renewed attempts to gain support from key power brokers.
Meanwhile:
- APC primaries in Surulere are expected soon
- Stakeholder endorsements continue to favor Odunuga-Bakare
- The race is shaping into a high-stakes political contest
Political analysts note that Tinubu’s refusal to intervene could redefine internal party democracy in Lagos, setting a precedent for future elections.
Implications for 2027 Lagos Politics
The unfolding situation highlights:
- A growing push for political renewal
- Increased emphasis on grassroots legitimacy
- Strategic positioning ahead of 2027 general elections
If Elliot fails to secure the party ticket, it could mark one of the most significant political upsets in Lagos state politics in recent years.
FAQ
Why did Tinubu reportedly reject Desmond Elliot’s 4th term bid?
Sources indicate that Tinubu prioritised party democracy and refused to override the decision of Surulere APC stakeholders, who are backing another candidate.
Who is challenging Desmond Elliot in Surulere?
Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, a former special adviser to the Lagos State governor, has emerged as a strong contender with significant grassroots support.
Is Desmond Elliot still contesting for a fourth term?
Yes, Elliot is reportedly still pursuing his ambition despite facing strong opposition and lack of presidential backing.
What role do APC stakeholders play in this decision?
APC stakeholders at the local level influence candidate selection, especially during primaries, making their support critical.
When will the APC primaries for Surulere take place?
The primaries are expected ahead of the 2027 elections, with key dates anticipated in 2026.
What criticisms have been made against Desmond Elliot?
Some groups have criticized his 12-year tenure, citing poor representation and lack of impactful leadership.
Who is Femi Gbajabiamila in this political context?
He is a key political figure in Surulere and reportedly supports the stakeholder decision, influencing the outcome.
Could Desmond Elliot still win the APC ticket?
It remains possible if he secures enough support during the primaries, but current momentum favors his challenger.
What does this mean for Lagos politics?
It signals a shift toward internal democracy and could reshape political power dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.
Why is this development significant?
It highlights evolving political accountability and the diminishing influence of elite lobbying in candidate selection.