Lagos State lawmaker Desmond Elliot has formally withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress primary race for the Surulere 1 constituency in the House of Assembly, claiming intimidation by his supporters.
Elliot announced his resignation on Wednesday at the tiny Paddington stadium on Western Avenue, where the party’s primary was taking place.
The actor-turned-politician stated that he made multiple requests to the electoral officers to allow his supporters entrance to the voting place, but his demands were denied.
“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 further claimed that several of his followers were denied admission to the voting venue despite repeated requests from electoral officials.
“They’ve not been allowed,” Elliot said soon before withdrawing from the election.
Following the development, his followers had a peaceful demonstration and gradually left the arena with him.
“Good luck. Thank you, and God bless you,” he told party members after stepping down from the race.
Elliot claimed that he chose to leave the venue to prevent a collapse in law and order, emphasizing that no election was worth the loss of life.
He also urged the APC leadership to provide a free and fair process for its primaries across the state.
