Desmond Elliot Re-Election Bid Sparks Fresh Crisis In All Progressives Congress Surulere Chapter

The situation has heightened divisions within the party, with some stakeholders accusing powerful interests of undermining internal democracy and attempting to manipulate the outcome of the primaries.

Some members allege that the move is aimed at sidelining actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot, despite his legislative experience and grassroots support within the constituency.

During a political discussion, a party stakeholder claimed that the process had already been skewed in favour of a female aspirant before the primaries.

He warned against any form of imposition, insisting that party members should be allowed to freely choose their representative.

“Nobody should play God in Surulere politics. The arrogance of power must stop. Party members should be allowed to choose their candidate freely,” he said.

The stakeholder further alleged that some appointees and party loyalists were being pressured and intimidated into supporting a specific aspirant.

“They are scaring people and intimidating people, especially those with political appointments, that if you do not support this lady, your position can be removed,” he alleged.

He also questioned why certain party officials and council leaders were openly aligning with one aspirant during the buildup to the primaries.

“How can a council chairman abandon his responsibilities just to follow an aspirant around? Leaders should ensure a level playing field, not openly take sides,” he said.

According to him, there is no genuine consensus arrangement in Surulere APC, claiming that party structures had been instructed to support the female aspirant.

He alleged that the Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Sharif Balogun, had directed ward leaders and party executives to mobilise support for her.

The controversy has intensified debates over Desmond Elliot’s political future in the Lagos State House of Assembly, with supporters insisting that opposition to his re-election is politically motivated.

While critics question his performance, his supporters argue that another term would position him for leadership roles within the Assembly.

A political commentator noted that many people misunderstand the role of lawmakers, stressing that legislators are primarily responsible for representation, lawmaking, and attracting development rather than directly funding major infrastructure projects.

He referenced a document titled My Surulere and I So Far, which reportedly highlighted Elliott’s legislative record, including sponsorship and co-sponsorship of motions and participation in bill passage.

The unfolding crisis has also revived discussions around political godfatherism in Surulere, with references made to the influence of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Some party members argue that if long-term representation was previously tolerated for others, it should not be denied to Elliott.

Sources within the party say efforts to reach a consensus candidate have failed, as supporters of Elliott and other aspirants continue to insist on open and competitive primaries.

They maintain that only a free and fair process will reflect the true will of party members.