Desmond Elliot Rejects APC Primary Result, Plans Appeal

Desmond Elliot Rejects APC Primary Result, Plans Appeal
Claims Violence, Disenfranchisement
The lawmaker also questioned the credibility of the process

Actor-turned-politician and Lagos lawmaker, Desmond Elliot, has rejected the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Surulere Constituency I held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, insisting he will challenge the process through the party’s internal appeal mechanism.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that Elliot, who currently represents Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, lost the APC ticket to Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, who secured 11,385 votes against his 270 votes in the primary.

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Odunuga-Bakare was reportedly backed by former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, and emerged victorious across all wards in the constituency.

Desmond Elliot Loses APC Return Ticket In Lagos Assembly Primaries

However, Elliot maintained that he did not withdraw from the race, clarifying that he only instructed his supporters and agents to step back from the voting process due to alleged irregularities.

“The only person who can ask me to step down is the party,” he said, stressing that he intends to pursue justice through the APC appeal structure.

He alleged that the exercise was marred by violence, intimidation, and disenfranchisement of his supporters, claiming that some were prevented from voting while others were injured during the process.

“There are videos of people going to the hospital. This is just primaries; it is not a do-or-die affair,” Elliot said.

The lawmaker also questioned the credibility of the process, alleging that the election was abruptly disrupted shortly after commencement and that some supporters were locked out of the venue before voting began.

Despite the controversy, Elliot reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and said he remains committed to serving the people of Surulere, adding that he will continue to pursue his mandate through lawful party channels.