Desmond Elliot cries out over intimidation, security withdrawal ahead of APC primaries in Lagos

Popular Nollywood actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot has alleged intimidation, coercion and political victimisation ahead of the upcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) direct primaries in Surulere, Lagos State.

The Surulere 1 representative at the Lagos State House of Assembly claimed that some party members supporting his re-election bid have been threatened, while others allegedly lost their positions because of their loyalty to him.

Elliot made the allegations in a video shared on his social media pages, where he appealed to party leaders to ensure a transparent, peaceful and credible primary election scheduled for May 20, 2026.

The development has intensified political tension within the Surulere APC structure and sparked conversations across Nigeria’s political and entertainment circles.

Desmond Elliot Alleges Intimidation and Coercion in APC

According to Elliot, some political actors in Surulere are allegedly attempting to influence party members through threats and pressure tactics ahead of the primaries.

The lawmaker accused certain APC leaders of compelling members to support a preferred candidate by threatening to exclude them from future empowerment programmes and political benefits.

“Intimidation, coercion, twisting and forcing people to follow their own candidate is what is existing today in Surulere,” Elliot stated in the viral video.

He stressed that all aspirants and supporters belong to the same political party and should be allowed to participate freely without fear or harassment.

‘My Security Personnel Were Withdrawn’ — Elliot

One of the strongest claims made by the lawmaker was the alleged withdrawal of his security aides shortly before the APC primary election.

Elliot questioned the reason behind the move, saying he was suddenly left without protection despite the rising political tension in the constituency.

“My security personnel was taken away from me yesterday for reasons best known to them. Now I am left alone to myself. What have I done?” he asked.

The allegation immediately drew reactions online, with supporters and political observers debating whether the action was politically motivated.

APC Primaries in Surulere Generate Tension

The APC direct primaries in Surulere have become increasingly contentious as different political camps intensify mobilisation efforts ahead of the vote.

Elliot also alleged that some local government officials openly endorsed another aspirant months before the exercise, describing the development as unfair.

He further claimed that local government workers who identified with him politically were dismissed from their positions.

“We’ve been intimidated so much that a lot of people from the local government have been fired because they follow me,” he alleged.

The lawmaker warned against possible violence during the primaries and alleged that plans were underway to mobilise outsiders into the constituency to cause unrest.

READ ALSO

How Desmond Elliot’s role in Obasa impeachment almost cost Gbajabiamila his job

Desmond Elliot Promises to Accept Outcome of Election

Despite his complaints, Elliot maintained that he would respect the outcome of the election if the process remains free and fair.

He said he is committed to party unity and pledged to support whoever emerges victorious after the primary exercise.

“By the grace of God, if I, Desmond Olusola Elliot, win, Alhamdulillah. If I lose, I will throw my support behind the winner,” he stated.

He also urged his supporters not to be intimidated and assured them that security would be available during the election process.

Elliot Faces Strong Challenge in Surulere APC Race

Elliot is reportedly facing strong competition from Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, a former special adviser on housing to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Odunuga-Bakare has secured endorsements from influential APC stakeholders in Surulere, including Femi Gbajabiamila, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives and current Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The endorsement has added another layer of political significance to the Surulere primary contest.

Political Stakes Rise Ahead of Lagos APC Primaries

The unfolding situation highlights the growing tension surrounding party primaries across different states as politicians battle for tickets ahead of future elections.

Analysts say the APC primaries in Lagos, especially in politically strategic constituencies like Surulere, could shape internal party alignments and influence grassroots structures ahead of larger electoral contests.

For now, all eyes remain on the Surulere APC primary election and whether party leaders will intervene to address the allegations raised by Elliot and his supporters.

FAQ

Why is Desmond Elliot trending?

Desmond Elliot is trending after alleging intimidation, coercion and political victimisation ahead of the APC direct primaries in Surulere, Lagos State.

What did Desmond Elliot say about his security aides?

The Lagos lawmaker claimed that his security personnel were suddenly withdrawn shortly before the APC primary election, although he said no official explanation was provided.

Who is Desmond Elliot contesting against?

Elliot is reportedly contesting against Barakat Odunuga-Bakare in the APC primary race for Surulere.

Did Desmond Elliot accuse APC leaders of intimidation?

Yes. Elliot alleged that some party leaders and political actors in Surulere were intimidating members and forcing them to support a preferred candidate.

Were local government workers fired for supporting Desmond Elliot?

According to Elliot, some local government workers allegedly lost their positions because they were identified as his supporters.

What is the APC direct primary election?

The APC direct primary system allows registered party members to vote directly for aspirants seeking the party’s ticket for elections.

Who endorsed Barakat Odunuga-Bakare?

Reports indicate that Femi Gbajabiamila and other APC stakeholders in Surulere endorsed Odunuga-Bakare.

What did Desmond Elliot say about violence during the primaries?

Elliot warned against attempts to bring outsiders into Surulere to cause unrest and appealed for peaceful conduct during the primaries.

Will Desmond Elliot accept the outcome of the election?

Yes. Elliot said he would support the eventual winner if the election process is conducted fairly and transparently.

What position does Desmond Elliot currently hold?

Desmond Elliot currently represents Surulere Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly.