Desmond Elliot Speaks Out, Alleges Intimidation
Popular Nollywood actor-turned-politician, Desmond Elliot, has cried out over what he described as coordinated intimidation and political victimisation ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections in Lagos State.
The lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly alleged that he was being unfairly targeted within the party structure as tensions continue to rise ahead of the APC primaries.
Speaking in a viral video circulating on social media, Elliot claimed that some party leaders and local government officials were pressuring members to support a preferred candidate, while those backing him were allegedly facing threats and punitive actions.
“It seems I am being thrown under the bus,” Elliot lamented, while expressing frustration over the unfolding political situation in Surulere.
According to him, intimidation, coercion, and arm-twisting had become rampant in the local chapter of the party, with supporters allegedly being threatened with exclusion from empowerment programmes if they failed to align with certain interests.
The four-term lawmaker further alleged that several local government officials believed to be loyal to him had already been removed from their positions.
“We have been intimidated so much that a lot of people from the local government have been fired because they follow me,” he stated.
Elliot also raised concerns over his personal security, alleging that his security aides were abruptly withdrawn without explanation.
“My security personnel were taken away from me yesterday for reasons best known to them. I’m now left alone. What have I done?” he queried.
The development comes amid growing political tension within the Lagos APC, especially in Surulere, where reports suggest that powerful party figures are backing another aspirant ahead of the primary election.
Although Elliot did not directly mention names in his outburst, political observers believe the crisis may not be unconnected with recent internal disagreements within the Lagos political structure.
The actor-politician, however, appealed to party leaders to ensure a transparent and fair primary process, insisting that aspirants should be allowed to test their popularity freely without intimidation or manipulation.
Elliot maintained that despite the alleged pressure and intimidation, he remains determined to contest and continue representing his constituency.
