Lagos, Nigeria | May 29, 2026
The scheduled primary election for Eti-Osa Constituency I of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC) was abruptly cancelled on Friday following security concerns and allegations of intimidation at the election venue in Sangotedo, Lagos State.
The exercise, slated to take place at Eden Gardens Estate, attracted party members, delegates, aspirants, electoral officials, and stakeholders who began arriving at the venue from early morning.
According to an official report submitted by election observers Comrade Victor Ojo Edo and Chioma Ifeanyichukwu, preparations for the exercise commenced smoothly, with venue arrangements completed before party members started arriving around 9:00 a.m.
However, tension reportedly escalated when a group of individuals described as underaged persons and suspected touts allegedly entered the venue. The report further alleged that the individuals were linked to one of the aspirants, Honourable Rotimi.
Shortly afterward, another group of suspected armed touts allegedly associated with Honourable Atta Achief also arrived at the venue, creating anxiety among delegates and party members.
Witnesses reportedly raised concerns over the presence of the individuals, alleging that some openly threatened attendees and claimed to be armed. Following mounting complaints, Honourable Atta Achief was said to have directed the group to move outside the venue.
The situation deteriorated further during the delegate screening process. According to the report, the same group allegedly forced its way back into the venue approximately twenty minutes after screening commenced, triggering panic and disrupting proceedings.
As tensions escalated, several stakeholders, including aspirants, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), members of the Electoral Committee, and local government party officials, reportedly left the venue over safety concerns.
With the security situation worsening and order breaking down, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee officially cancelled the primary election.
Observers noted that after the departure of most party members and officials, the committee could no longer verify subsequent events, as the election process had effectively been terminated.
The report concluded that the primary election could not be successfully conducted due to severe security threats, alleged intimidation of party members, and the presence of suspected armed touts at the venue.
Video evidence documenting the incidents was reportedly attached to the observers’ report for verification.
As of the time of filing this report, party leadership had not issued an official statement regarding a new date for the rescheduled primary election.
— Alert Global News