Lagos Assembly: Inside Gbajabiamila, Elliott’s face-off in Surulere
Lagos Assembly: Tensions Rise Between Elliott and Gbajabiamila Ahead of Primaries
By Dapo Akinrefon & Ebunoluwa Sessou
The bid of Nollywood actor Desmond Elliott to secure a fourth term representing Surulere 1 Constituency in the Lagos State House of Assembly has met resistance from Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President. This discord has widened the rift between the two leaders.
Gbajabiamila is backing Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, the former Lagos Special Adviser on Housing, as a candidate to replace Elliott. He asserts that this decision aligns with efforts to promote women’s representation in politics.
Elliott, who is vying for the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination, is intent on showcasing his popularity during the House of Assembly primaries scheduled for tomorrow.
Presidential Influence
Elliott’s quest for re-election has faced a significant setback, as President Bola Tinubu reportedly declined multiple entreaties from influential figures advocating for Elliott’s fourth term. Sources indicate that despite a concerted effort involving several high-profile allies, Tinubu remained steadfast in his support for the local APC’s decision to favor Odunuga-Bakare.
In a show of support for internal party democracy, Tinubu communicated to his aides that the outcome of the primaries should reflect the preferences of Surulere stakeholders and not external pressures. He reportedly emphasized that if Elliott’s supporters could no longer rally behind him, it raised questions about his political standing and effectiveness.
An Appeal for Forgiveness
Amidst these challenges, Elliott expressed his desire for reconciliation, appealing directly to Gbajabiamila for forgiveness. After submitting his nomination form for re-election, he acknowledged the possibility of missteps and sought another opportunity to serve. “If I have erred in any way, I am sorry. Give me another chance,” he stated, underscoring his commitment to delivering more democratic benefits to the constituents.
Political Turbulence
Gbajabiamila revealed during a recent stakeholders’ meeting that he narrowly avoided losing his Chief of Staff position amid political turmoil in the Lagos Assembly, which included allegations involving Elliott. During this crisis, Tinubu summoned Gbajabiamila to address concerns regarding Elliott’s alleged destabilizing role in the Assembly.
Despite Gbajabiamila’s defense of Elliott, he cautioned the actor-turned-politician to distance himself from any ongoing disputes. Gbajabiamila recounted a directive from the President to ensure Elliott remained aligned with the party’s interests.
Accusations of Intimidation
In a further twist, Elliott has accused certain APC leaders in Surulere of intimidation and manipulation ahead of the primaries. He claims that party members have faced pressure to support Odunuga-Bakare and alleged that several local government officials were removed from their posts for backing him.
Elliott characterized the political climate in Surulere as one rife with coercion, expressing his commitment to accept the election outcome as long as it is conducted fairly.
Shifting Alliances
The dynamics surrounding Elliott’s candidacy have shifted, with Bless Koye, the Director General of his campaign, publicly pledging support for Odunuga-Bakare. Meanwhile, five other aspirants have stepped down to endorse her, enhancing her chances of success in the upcoming primaries.
Support for Elliott
Despite the opposition, Elliott still garners support from some former lawmakers, including Kabiru Lawal, who have praised his service and dedication. Lawal highlighted the significance of experience in the Assembly and called for continued support for Elliott in light of potential shifts in leadership within the legislative body.
As the primaries approach, both Elliott and Odunuga-Bakare prepare for a decisive contest that will shape the future of political representation in Surulere.
