Desmond Elliot Faces Setback as Bola Tinubu Opposes 4th Term Bid

President Bola Tinubu has reportedly declined moves by Lagos lawmaker Desmond Elliot to secure a fourth term in the Lagos State House of Assembly.

According to sources within the Presidency, Tinubu rejected repeated appeals from influential figures who attempted to lobby on Elliot’s behalf. The efforts were said to have been unsuccessful despite involving prominent intermediaries.

Reports indicate that party stakeholders in Surulere have instead thrown their support behind Barakat Odunuga-Bakare as a preferred replacement, signaling a shift in local political backing.

It was further gathered that Elliot made several attempts to gain the President’s approval through different channels, including high-profile allies, but failed to secure endorsement.

Tinubu’s stance is said to align with the position of Surulere APC stakeholders, as well as key party figures such as Femi Gbajabiamila. The President reportedly emphasized that internal party processes, particularly direct primaries, would determine the candidate with genuine grassroots support rather than external influence.

Commenting on the development, the Surulere Accountability Front maintained that Elliot’s fourth-term ambition lacks the backing of the majority of constituents. Its chairman, Olanrewaju Badmus, criticized Elliot’s 12-year tenure, describing it as marked by poor representation and political instability.

The group added that many residents, particularly youths, are calling for change in representation, reflecting growing dissatisfaction within the constituency.