By Kingston Magare 20.5.2026
Veteran actor turned politician Desmond Elliott Wednesday was practically bounced out at the Lagos House of Assembly primaries.
Mr. Elliot was hoping to win a fourth term to represent the Surulere Constituency I, but hours into the exercise he told journalists he was no longer participating.
“In all zones, they’ve been intimidating and stopping us. I want to officially announce my withdrawal from this particular race. This is my ward. If you go outside, those are my people outside,” Elliot said.
He also alleged that many of his supporters were denied access to the polling venue despite repeated appeals to electoral officials.
“They’ve not been allowed,” Elliott stated shortly before announcing his withdrawal from the contest.”
His supporters staged a peaceful protest but later left the venue with him.
It was gathered that his opponent, Mrs Barakat Odunuga-Bakare backed by Femi Gbajabiamila who is
the Chief of Staff to the President Bola Tinubu is now favoured to win the party’s ticket.
Gbajabiamila later commended electoral officials for doing a good job.
“The turnout, considering that we are talking about primaries here, has been very impressive. People have been peaceful and orderly.
“The election has been free and transparent, and I am happy to see that. So, I congratulate the people of Ward G2,” Gbajabiamila said.