Reports indicate that Basiru made the remarks during an interview on ARISE Television, where he described the emerging coalitions as political distractions rather than viable alternatives.

He maintained that any politician serious about winning elections must align with the APC, which he described as the country’s most dominant political structure.

According to him, apart from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the APC remains the only party with proven success in national elections.

Basiru stated that many of the groups calling themselves coalitions have not demonstrated real electoral strength, insisting they are yet to convince Nigerians of their viability.

He said, “Aside from the PDP, APC remains the strongest political machinery for winning elections in Nigeria today.

“Many of the groups calling themselves coalitions are yet to prove themselves as credible electoral forces, and for now, they appear more like political distractions than serious alternatives.”

He also referenced the formation of the APC in 2013 through a merger of major opposition parties, which later led to the party’s historic victory in 2015 when Muhammadu Buhari defeated then-incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.

The APC was formed through the alliance of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), which came together on a reform and change agenda.

Reports indicate that Elliot, who represents Surulere Constituency I, recently alleged pressure ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) direct primaries scheduled for May 20, claiming that some of his supporters were being intimidated and that his security details had been withdrawn.

Reacting via Instagram, Rollas publicly backed the lawmaker’s re-election bid, insisting that Elliot should be allowed to continue in office for another term.

He argued that several lawmakers at both state and federal levels have served multiple terms, questioning why Elliot’s fourth-term ambition is being treated differently.

Rollas also called for a free and fair primary election within the APC, stressing that Elliot should be allowed to contest without interference.

He further appealed to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, urging him to forgive Elliot over any past disagreements and support reconciliation.

In his words, he wrote: “I lend my voice to Hon Desmond Elliott who in my own opinion deserves a 4th term. I lived in Surulere from 1993 to 2023 and I can testify that all serving reps both Federal and State have served more term than Desmond so why the issue about his 4th term bid?

“Allow a free and fair direct primaries and let’s see if he won’t get the ticket 💯💯💯💯💯💯💯 @desmondelliot @speakergbaja Sir Desmond is your boy he has apologized please pardon him let’s let this be a last warning sir.”