Lagos lawmaker, Desmond Elliott, has raised concerns over alleged political intimidation and the sudden withdrawal of his security aides ahead of the All Progressives Congress, APC, House of Assembly primaries in Surulere Constituency I.
In a viral video, Elliott claimed that party leaders and local government officials were pressuring members to support a preferred aspirant ahead of the May 20 primaries. He alleged that some officials were removed from office for backing his candidacy, describing the political atmosphere in Surulere as tense and divisive.
The lawmaker also alleged that his security personnel were withdrawn without explanation, leaving him exposed at a critical period. He called for urgent intervention by APC leadership to investigate the situation and ensure fairness in the conduct of the primaries.
Elliott further accused local government authorities of openly endorsing another aspirant months before the exercise, saying such actions amounted to coercion and undermined internal democracy.
He expressed concern that supporters and associates linked to him had also faced alleged victimisation, including dismissal from positions due to their political loyalty. According to him, the situation reflects increasing intimidation within the party structure in the area.
The lawmaker warned that such developments could heighten tensions and potentially lead to violence during the primaries if not properly managed. He, however, urged his supporters to remain calm and avoid any form of provocation.
Elliott appealed to APC stakeholders to ensure a free, fair, and transparent primary election, stressing that he would accept the outcome if due process is followed.
The allegations come amid growing political tension in Lagos APC circles ahead of the upcoming primaries, and just days after Elliott publicly apologised to House Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila over his role in internal party disagreements.
