Barr. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare has reacted emotionally after emerging victorious in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Surulere Constituency I ahead of the Lagos State House of Assembly election.
The former Special Adviser on Housing to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was visibly emotional while addressing supporters shortly after the result of the primary election was announced.
In a video that quickly went viral across social media platforms, Barakat expressed gratitude to supporters and residents of Surulere Constituency I for standing by her throughout the political process.
“A heart full of gratitude. Thank you, Surulere Constituency 1,” she said emotionally while addressing cheering supporters.
Political observers have described her emergence as a major political development in Surulere politics, especially considering the intense build-up that surrounded the APC primary election.
The contest attracted widespread attention because incumbent lawmaker Hon. Desmond Elliot was also seeking another term in office after spending several years representing the constituency in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
However, the election eventually ended in Barakat’s favour in what many party insiders described as a decisive and overwhelming victory.
According to reports from the primary election, Barakat secured more than 11,000 votes, while Desmond Elliot reportedly polled 270 votes.
The wide margin immediately sparked reactions within political circles in Lagos, with many describing the outcome as one of the biggest upsets recorded during the APC primaries in the state.
Barakat’s campaign had gathered significant momentum in the weeks leading to the election, with support reportedly coming from several grassroots groups, including market associations, youth organisations, artisans and influential APC stakeholders within Surulere.
Her growing popularity within the constituency was also seen as a major factor that strengthened her chances ahead of the exercise.
During her speech after the victory, the APC candidate thanked residents and party loyalists for their confidence and support, insisting that the victory belonged to the entire constituency.
Supporters at the venue erupted in celebration as chants and songs filled the atmosphere following the announcement of the result.
However, social media users also noticed that Barakat did not directly mention Desmond Elliot during her speech despite reports that the lawmaker had stepped down from the race before the conclusion of the exercise.
Elliot had earlier announced his withdrawal from the APC primary, alleging intimidation and restrictions against his supporters during the voting process.
Watch the video below;
The development has continued to generate conversations online, especially among political observers monitoring the changing political dynamics within Lagos APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
With the APC primary now concluded, focus is expected to shift toward the general election, where Barakat Odunuga-Bakare will represent the ruling party in Surulere Constituency I.
What you should know
Barakat Odunuga-Bakare’s emergence as APC candidate for Surulere Constituency I marks a major political shift in Lagos politics, particularly because she defeated incumbent lawmaker Desmond Elliot, who had represented the constituency for several years.
Before contesting the election, Barakat served as Special Adviser on Housing to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and built strong grassroots support within Surulere.
The APC primary also attracted controversy after Desmond Elliot withdrew from the race, alleging intimidation and restricted access for his supporters.
Political analysts believe the outcome may signal changing power dynamics within the Lagos APC as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections across the state.
