By Ebunoluwa Sessou

Residents in Surulere Constituency I area of Lagos have raised concerns over alleged intimidation and harassment during the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries for the Lagos State House of Assembly.

A woman identified as a ward leader at Ward F3, Paddington Mini Stadium, alleged that she was pressured to vote for one of the aspirants or risk losing her position in the party.

According to her, some party members and executives were allegedly warned against supporting a particular aspirant.

“They have been monitoring us since we arrived at the venue, even before accreditation started,” she alleged.

She further claimed that some supporters of lawmaker Desmond Elliott were being intimidated by individuals she described as influential party figures.

“They said some of us could lose our positions as party executives if we do not support their preferred candidate. But I will still vote for the person of my choice,” she said.

Another supporter of Desmond Elliott, who requested anonymity, also alleged that party executive members were being pressured to support Barakat Odunuga Bakare.

“We were also instructed not to wear caps or clothing bearing the image of any aspirant,” the supporter claimed.

The individual further alleged that some party loyalists were discouraged from openly supporting their preferred candidates at the venue.

Another party member alleged that some individuals were threatened with possible job-related consequences over their voting choices.

According to the source, “Some people are worried about intimidation and pressure over who they should support during the primary.”

Several supporters who spoke at the venue praised the performance of Desmond Elliott, citing constituency projects and assistance rendered to residents.

At Surulere Block 114 and 117, Alaka Housing Estate, Ward G2, security personnel were visibly present as party members turned out in large numbers to support their preferred aspirants.

Vanguard observed that supporters of Barakat Odunuga Bakare were seen wearing branded T-shirts and caps, while some supporters of Desmond Elliott stood at a distance watching the proceedings.

At the Wards, security personnel are seen observing the situation of things and event as it unfolds.