Actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot has officially withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress primary election for Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Elliot announced his withdrawal on the same day the APC primary election was scheduled to hold, citing alleged intimidation and obstruction targeting him and his supporters across different areas of the constituency.
The Lagos lawmaker claimed that members of his political structure were repeatedly prevented from operating freely ahead of the exercise.
According to him, the situation created an atmosphere that made it impossible for him to continue racing.
“In all zones, they have been intimidating and stopping us,” Elliot stated.
“I want to officially announce my withdrawal from this particular race.”
The withdrawal marks a dramatic twist in the Surulere APC contest and comes amid growing political tension within the party in Lagos State.
Before stepping down, Desmond Elliot had earlier raised concerns publicly over alleged coercion, arm-twisting, and political intimidation surrounding the primary process.
He also previously alleged that some party members and local government workers faced pressure because of their political association with him.
The actor-politician additionally claimed his security aides had been withdrawn shortly before the election, raising concerns about his personal safety.
Elliot’s withdrawal now adds another layer to the ongoing political drama within Lagos APC ahead of the 2027 elections, especially in Surulere where internal party rivalries have intensified in recent weeks.
The lawmaker has represented Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly since 2015 after transitioning from a successful Nollywood acting career into politics.
