Meanwhile, incumbent lawmaker Desmond Elliott, who represents Surulere Constituency I, announced his withdrawal from the race at the Paddington Mini Stadium along Western Avenue. Elliott, an actor-turned-politician, alleged that his supporters were systematically denied access to the venue despite repeated appeals to electoral officials. He claimed that intimidation and obstruction were widespread across all zones of the constituency. “They’ve been intimidating and stopping us,” he said. “I want to officially announce my withdrawal from this particular race. This is my ward. If you go outside, those are my people outside.”
Elliott maintained that the exclusion of his supporters from the process was a decisive factor in his decision to step down. “They’ve not been allowed,” he stated shortly before formally withdrawing. Following his announcement, some of his supporters staged a peaceful protest before leaving the venue alongside him. The incident has drawn attention to concerns about inclusivity and fairness in party primaries, even as Gbajabiamila’s assessment highlights the overall calm conduct of the election.
This primary serves as a critical moment for the APC in Lagos State, with implications for the upcoming general elections. The outcome will shape the party’s representation in Surulere and could influence voter sentiment in the region.
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