The fourth-term ambition of Nollywood actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot to represent Surulere 1 Constituency in the Lagos State House of Assembly has reportedly sparked political tension within the ruling All Progressives Congress.

The controversy is said to involve the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, who allegedly supported a move to replace Elliot with former Special Adviser on Housing, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, in line with efforts to boost female representation in politics.

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According to political sources, President Bola Tinubu reportedly declined lobbying efforts from influential figures seeking to overturn the stance of Surulere APC stakeholders.

Those said to have approached the President reportedly included a retired military general, a senator, a serving minister, and other close allies of the presidency, all of whom allegedly appealed for Elliot’s return ticket.

However, the President was said to have insisted that the party must respect internal democracy and allow delegates and stakeholders in Surulere to determine the outcome through direct primaries.

The reported position underscores Tinubu’s repeated public stance on strengthening internal party processes and reducing imposition of candidates within the APC.

The development has heightened political tension within Surulere politics, where Desmond Elliot has served multiple terms as a lawmaker representing the constituency.

Elliot’s bid for a fourth term is now facing opposition from segments of local party stakeholders who are reportedly backing Barakat Odunuga-Bakare as a preferred candidate.

The reported backing of Odunuga-Bakare has been interpreted by observers as part of a broader push within some political circles to promote greater female inclusion in legislative representation.

However, supporters of Elliot insist that his long-standing incumbency and political experience should be considered in determining the party’s candidate.

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The reported stance attributed to President Tinubu highlights the ongoing emphasis within the APC on internal democracy and competitive primaries.

Party insiders say the ruling party is increasingly encouraging direct primaries in constituencies where consensus cannot be reached among stakeholders.

This approach, according to analysts, is aimed at reducing post-primary disputes and strengthening legitimacy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As the APC prepares for legislative primaries across Lagos State, the contest in Surulere 1 Constituency has become one of the most closely watched races.

The outcome is expected to reflect broader dynamics within the party, including the balance between incumbency, internal zoning arrangements, gender inclusion, and grassroots popularity.

Political observers note that while reports of presidential intervention and lobbying have stirred controversy, the final decision will ultimately rest on the outcome of the primaries.

The unfolding situation around Desmond Elliot’s political future highlights the increasingly competitive nature of Lagos APC politics, where internal democracy, stakeholder influence, and national-level interests intersect.

As the primaries approach, attention remains focused on whether incumbents can withstand internal challenges or whether a new wave of political representation will emerge within Surulere politics.