By Our Correspondent

National News – Actor-turned-politician and Lagos State House of Assembly member, Desmond Elliot, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Surulere 1 constituency.

The development occurred on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the Paddington Mini Stadium along Western Avenue in Lagos.

Elliot cited alleged intimidation of his supporters and restricted access to the polling venue as key reasons for stepping down.

The lawmaker said repeated appeals to electoral officers were ignored, raising concerns about fairness in the exercise.

Elliot explained that the situation escalated when his supporters were allegedly prevented from entering the voting area despite being accredited party members.

He alleged that the process was neither transparent nor inclusive, prompting fears of possible breakdown of law and order.

According to him, withdrawing from the race was necessary to prevent violence and protect his constituents.

His exit triggered a peaceful protest by supporters who later left the venue alongside him.

Sources at the venue indicated that the APC primary continued under tight security as party officials managed crowd control following the withdrawal.

Elliot, a former Nollywood actor who transitioned into politics, urged the party leadership to ensure fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for all aspirants in future primaries across Lagos State.

The Surulere 1 constituency race had attracted significant attention due to Elliot’s profile and previous legislative experience.

The incident has sparked renewed debate about internal democracy within political parties and the need for credible electoral processes in Nigeria’s political system.

The APC leadership is expected to review the circumstances surrounding the Surulere 1 primary as stakeholders call for greater transparency and adherence to democratic principles in candidate selection ahead of future elections in Lagos State.