Lagos State lawmaker, Desmond Elliot, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Surulere 1 State Constituency, alleging intimidation and harassment of his supporters during the exercise.
Elliot announced his decision on Wednesday at the Paddington Mini Stadium along Western Avenue, venue of the party’s primary election.
The actor-turned-politician said several attempts made to get his supporters access into the polling venue were unsuccessful despite repeated appeals to electoral officials.
“And of course, 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,” he said.
He alleged that many of his supporters were prevented from entering the venue throughout the exercise.
“They’ve not been allowed,” Elliot stated shortly before formally stepping down from the contest.
Following his withdrawal, supporters of the lawmaker staged a peaceful protest before leaving the venue with him.
“Good luck. Thank you, and God bless you,” he told party members after announcing his withdrawal.
Elliot explained that his decision was aimed at preventing any breakdown of law and order, stressing that no political contest was worth risking human lives.
He also urged the leadership of the APC to ensure transparency, fairness and credibility in the conduct of its primary elections across Lagos State.