Desmond Elliot, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has apologised to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over the issues that arose between them during the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election.
PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that Mr Gbajabiamila backed Barakat Odunuga-Bakare against Mr Elliot, who sought re-election to represent Surulere Constituency I.
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Ms Odunuga-Bakare defeated the other aspirants after Mr Elliot withdrew from the race, alleging that his supporters faced intimidation and were denied access to the voting venue.
The actor-turned-politician said he repeatedly appealed to the electoral officials to allow his supporters into the venue, but they ignored his appeals. He added that officials prevented many of his supporters from entering the venue despite several interventions.
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Apology
Since the election, Mr Gbajabiamila and Mr Elliot had not been seen together until Sunday, when a viral video showed Mr Elliot kneeling before the former Speaker of the House of Representatives.
In the video posted on Lagos Junction’s social media handles, Mr Elliot sought Mr Gbajabiamila’s forgiveness and reconciliation with the APC leadership in Lagos.
He expressed remorse for his actions, saying he might have acted under a misguided impression during the primary election. He also vowed to conduct himself better in future.
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“I’m sorry. I have no excuse; I have nothing other than to say I’m deeply sorry. I’m deeply sorry, sir. And in our culture, we prostrate. Don’t be angry, Daddy,” Mr Elliot said.
Loyalty
However, Mr Elliot reaffirmed his loyalty to Mr Gbajabiamila in a statement he posted on Instagram on Sunday after their meeting.
He appealed for understanding and unity as party members continue to work together to strengthen the APC, develop Surulere, and advance Lagos State and Nigeria.
He said, “I, Hon. Desmond Olusola Elliott, wish to sincerely express my heartfelt appreciation to my political father, mentor, and leader, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, for his unwavering guidance, support, and investment in my political journey over the years.
“I remain committed to the ideals of loyalty, service, and respect for party leadership—my respect and loyalty to Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila remains unwavering. Everything I have achieved politically is all for Surulerians.”
He also appreciated his constituents and Mr Gbajabiamila for their love and continued belief in him, saying no political ambition or temporary disagreement was worth destroying a relationship.
“It is therefore important for me to publicly state that no political ambition or temporary disagreement is worth damaging a relationship built on years of trust, guidance, and shared commitment to the progress of our party and our people.”
After Mr Elliot knelt and apologised, Mr Gbajabiamila asked him to get up. He said, “There is no… please, get up.”
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