Lagos State lawmaker and actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Surulere 1 constituency in the House of Assembly, citing alleged intimidation of his supporters.
The announcement was made on Wednesday at the Paddington mini stadium on Western Avenue, where the primary election was taking place under the supervision of All Progressives Congress officials.
Elliot stated that he had made several attempts to persuade electoral officers to allow his supporters access to the polling venue, but his appeals were reportedly ignored. He alleged that supporters were repeatedly blocked from entering the premises, escalating tensions at the venue.
He expressed frustration over the situation, saying intimidation had been ongoing across different zones during the process. Moments later, he formally announced his withdrawal from the race.
Following his announcement, supporters staged a peaceful protest outside the venue before gradually dispersing alongside him to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Elliot also urged the party leadership to ensure fairness and transparency in the conduct of its primaries across Lagos State, stressing that political contests should not result in violence or loss of lives.
