Tension is mounting within the All Progressives Congress in Surulere following allegations that influential party figures are attempting to impose a preferred aspirant ahead of the Lagos State House of Assembly primaries.

The controversy has sparked fresh debates over internal democracy, political succession, and the influence of power brokers within the party structure in Surulere.

Party stakeholders who spoke during a political discussion accused some leaders of manipulating the process in favour of a female aspirant, allegedly to prevent actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliott from securing another term in the Assembly.

According to the aggrieved stakeholders, the development has created division among party loyalists and intensified concerns about fairness in the selection process.

One stakeholder, who described himself as a committed member of the APC in Surulere, warned party leaders against what he called the “arrogance of power.”

“Nobody should play God in Surulere politics. The arrogance of power must stop. Party members should be allowed to choose their candidate freely,” he stated.

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The stakeholder further alleged that some government appointees and party loyalists were being pressured to support the preferred aspirant or risk losing their positions.

“They are scaring people and intimidating people, especially those who have offices, that if you do not support this lady, your appointment can be removed,” he alleged.

The accusations have fueled concerns among grassroots members who fear that the primaries may not reflect the genuine wishes of party supporters.

Questions were also raised about the visible involvement of some council officials in the campaign activities of the aspirant ahead of the primaries.

“How can a council chairman leave his work and be following an aspirant around? Leaders should create a level playing field, not openly take sides,” the stakeholder added.

The controversy has reportedly placed the Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Sharif Balogun, at the center of the dispute after claims emerged that he had directed party executives and ward leaders to mobilize support for the aspirant.

Despite the allegations, supporters of the aspirant insist there is nothing unusual about political endorsements within party structures. However, critics maintain that any attempt to predetermine the outcome of the primaries could deepen internal divisions within the APC.

The political uncertainty has once again brought attention to the future of Desmond Elliott, who currently represents Surulere Constituency in the Lagos State House of Assembly.

While some opponents have questioned his performance in office, his supporters argue that he has contributed significantly through legislative activities and constituency projects.

A political commentator familiar with the matter stated that many residents misunderstand the constitutional responsibilities of lawmakers.

According to the commentator, legislators are primarily expected to sponsor bills, move motions, represent constituents, and facilitate development projects rather than personally fund large-scale infrastructure.

The commentator referenced a legislative compendium titled My Surulere and I So Far, which reportedly documented Elliott’s activities in office.

The publication allegedly revealed that Elliott sponsored 11 motions, co-sponsored 42 motions, and participated in the passage of 32 bills into law during his tenure.

The crisis has also revived discussions surrounding the political influence of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, whose political structure remains influential in Surulere politics.

Some party members argued that since Gbajabiamila represented the constituency for multiple terms before advancing politically, denying Elliott a similar opportunity would amount to unfair treatment.

Sources within the party said efforts to reach a consensus arrangement have so far failed due to resistance from supporters of Elliott and other aspirants demanding an open and transparent primary election.

“What leadership should do is create a free and fair environment. Let the people decide. If the people don’t want an aspirant, they will reject the person themselves,” a stakeholder concluded.

As political activities intensify ahead of the primaries, observers believe the manner in which the APC handles the growing dispute could significantly influence party unity and electoral strength in Surulere ahead of future elections.