Tinubu Silent as Elliott Faces APC Primary Showdown

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

LAGOS — Fresh uncertainty has trailed the political future of Surulere Constituency I lawmaker, Desmond Elliott, following claims that lobbying efforts on his behalf have failed to secure high-level backing ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries.

Elliott, a three-term member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, confirmed on May 3, 2026, that he has obtained the party’s nomination form to seek a fourth consecutive term. “I have obtained the nomination form to seek a return mandate to represent Surulere Constituency I,” he said, framing his ambition around continuity and legislative advantage.

The lawmaker has argued that his return would elevate the constituency’s influence within the Assembly. “My going back makes me automatically a ranking member and loads of benefits come to our constituency,” Elliott noted, adding that senior lawmakers often enjoy priority in resource allocation and policy attention.

However, his bid is facing stiff resistance from within the constituency. A civic group, the Surulere Accountability Forum, alongside some residents, has openly challenged his record, alleging “dismal performance, weak policy innovation and failure to proactively address local needs” across his three terms.

Political observers say the tension reflects broader electoral dynamics in Surulere, where opposition momentum has grown since the 2023 general elections. The Labour Party secured the House of Representatives seat in the area, signalling a shift that analysts warn could resurface if internal party grievances are ignored.

The APC’s decision to adopt direct primaries nationwide has further complicated Elliott’s path. With the exercise scheduled for May 21, aspirants are expected to face party members in an open queue voting system, eliminating backroom consensus arrangements and placing greater emphasis on grassroots support.

Meanwhile, speculation persists over the stance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, widely regarded as a key influence in Lagos politics. Although the presidency does not formally determine state assembly candidates, party insiders suggest that a neutral or hands-off posture from Tinubu could weaken Elliott’s traditional support base within the APC structure.

The Merit Newspaper reports that the screening of aspirants is expected to take place between May 6 and May 8, during which petitions against candidates may be considered. Party officials say disqualification remains a possibility if credible concerns are upheld, particularly those relating to performance and party loyalty.

With the clock ticking toward the primaries, Elliott’s political fate now appears tied less to elite endorsements and more to the verdict of party members in Surulere, setting the stage for what could become one of the most closely watched intra-party contests in Lagos ahead of the 2027 elections.