President Bola Tinubu has reportedly turned down repeated appeals from influential figures seeking his support for a fourth-term bid by Lagos lawmaker Desmond Elliot.
According to sources within the Presidency, several high-profile intermediaries—including a retired general, a serving minister, and a senator—approached the President at different times to lobby on Elliot’s behalf. However, Tinubu is said to have consistently declined, insisting on respect for internal party democracy.
The President reportedly aligned with the position of Surulere APC stakeholders, who have endorsed former Lagos Special Adviser on Housing, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, as Elliot’s preferred successor. The move is also seen as part of broader efforts to promote gender inclusion within the party.
Sources said Tinubu reaffirmed his support for due process, emphasizing that the forthcoming primary election would determine the candidate with genuine grassroots backing. He also made it clear he would not override the influence of his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, whom he described as a key political figure in Surulere.
Reflecting on Elliot’s political rise, the President reportedly noted that the lawmaker was first introduced into Lagos politics over a decade ago through the intervention of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, with Gbajabiamila playing a central role in securing his acceptance within the constituency.
Tinubu was also quoted as warning against disregarding political structures and public sentiment, drawing parallels with internal party conflicts elsewhere. Despite the setbacks, Elliot is said to be making last-minute efforts to revive his chances ahead of the Surulere 1 APC primary scheduled for May 20, 2026.
Meanwhile, local advocacy group Surulere Accountability Front has reiterated its opposition to Elliot’s continued tenure, citing dissatisfaction among constituents and calling for a change in representation.