Lagos, Nigeria — Lawmaker and Nollywood actor-turned-politician, Hon. Desmond Elliot, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries for Surulere Constituency 1 in the Lagos State House of Assembly, ahead of the party’s scheduled primary election.
Elliot, who has represented the constituency since 2015 and was seeking a fourth term, stepped down ahead of the primaries fixed for May 20, 2026, following weeks of internal political tension within the party structure in Surulere.
In recent days, the lawmaker had raised concerns over alleged intimidation, withdrawal of security aides, and pressure on his supporters, sparking speculation about his political future within the APC.
However, party insiders say the decision followed consultations and high-level interventions aimed at easing tensions and preventing a divided primary process in the constituency.
His withdrawal is seen as clearing the path for other aspirants, including Hon. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, who reportedly enjoys growing support within key party structures and backing from influential stakeholders.
Elliot’s political career began in 2015 when he was first elected into the Lagos State House of Assembly, where he has remained one of the more prominent lawmakers representing Surulere Constituency 1.
Over the years, his tenure has been marked by both commendations for accessibility and criticisms over infrastructural development in parts of his constituency.
Reports also indicate that several members of his campaign team, including his Director-General, had earlier defected to rival camps, further weakening his re-election bid ahead of the primaries.
Party sources say the withdrawal is expected to reduce internal friction and strengthen unity within the APC ahead of the forthcoming general elections.
Attention now shifts to the official conduct of the primaries, as the APC prepares to select its candidate for the Surulere Constituency 1 seat.
Elliot is expected to address supporters in the coming days to clarify his next political steps and reaffirm his commitment to the party.
The development underscores the increasingly competitive and strategic nature of intra-party politics in Lagos State ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
