Olayiwola Matthew
Lagos State lawmaker, Desmond Elliot has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the Surulere 1 constituency seat in the house of assembly, citing alleged intimidation of his supporters.
Elliot announced his decision on Wednesday at the Paddington Mini Stadium along Western Avenue, where the party primary was being held.
The actor-turned-politician said several appeals made to electoral officials to allow his supporters into the venue were ignored.
“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 alleged that many of his supporters were prevented from gaining access to the polling venue despite repeated requests to the officials in charge.
“They’ve not been allowed. Good luck. Thank you, and God bless you,” he told party members after stepping down from the contest.
Following his withdrawal, supporters loyal to him staged a peaceful protest before gradually leaving the venue alongside the lawmaker.
Elliot explained that he chose to withdraw in order to prevent any breakdown of law and order, stressing that no political contest was worth the loss of lives.
