•Desmond Elliott (C) and the stakeholders
The lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Desmond Elliott, has formally declared his intention to seek another term, asking the party leaders and followers and well wishers to support his ambition.
Speaking after the meeting with stakeholders including the former local government, Tajudeen Ajide, and members within Surulere constituency 1, Elliott said his decision was deliberate, noting that the groups represent the core of grassroots mobilization and community engagement, reports Daily Independent.
According to him, “I came to the CDA, which is the party at the local government, and also the community development people, to inform them of my intention to run again to represent the good people of Surulere Constituency I,” he said.
The lawmaker expressed appreciation for the turnout and support received.
“I am overwhelmed by the reception from the CDA, from the local government, from everywhere. It is fantastic. I am very honoured,” he added.
Elliott, who is seeking another term after over a decade in office, anchored his campaign on the theme,’Experience Over Experiment’, arguing that continuity in leadership would better serve the constituency.
“Surulere has blessed me. I have studied up to doctorate level in legislative studies, which makes me well-grounded in lawmaking,” he said.
“Experience cannot be bought. If you start afresh, it takes years to build. So why waste that time when you can continue with a tested experience?
Highlighting his achievements, Elliott pointed to improvements in flood control across Surulere, attributing the progress to sustained drainage maintenance.
“Flooding used to be a major issue, but last year, you did not hear of flooding in Surulere because we ensured constant desilting of drainages and canals,” he stated.
He also listed infrastructure and energy interventions, including the rehabilitation of over 32 roads and improvements in electricity supply through collaborative efforts with key stakeholders such as Femi Gbajabiamila and power distribution companies.
“Today, power supply in Surulere is more stable. We facilitated metering and supported the establishment of an injection substation through collaboration,” he said.
On healthcare, Elliott said he has sponsored medical outreach programmes, including surgeries and the distribution of medications to residents. He also pledged to expand job opportunities, leveraging his influence in the entertainment industry.
“Through my platform in Nollywood, I have been able to create opportunities, and I promise to do more,” he said.
The lawmaker further noted that his return to the Assembly would strengthen his influence as a ranking member, enabling him to attract more developmental projects to the constituency.
“Experience brings greater capacity. As a ranking member, there are better opportunities to deliver more for my people,” he added.
Elliott’s declaration signals the start of intensified political activities in Surulere as stakeholders gear up for the next electoral cycle.
While, prominent stakeholders and members of the entertainment industry have thrown their weight behind the renewed political ambition of Nollywood actor and lawmaker, Desmond Elliott, describing him as a “tested and trusted” leader with a proven track record.
Speaking with journalists in Surulere, veteran actor, Sunny McDonald popularly known as ,”Ancestor,” said Elliott represents a “winning team” whose performance in office justifies continued support.
“Globally, people say you do not change a winning team. Desmond is a winning team. From the work he has done in Surulere, it is clear he has delivered. We are here to support him and give him a renewed mandate,” he said.
Also speaking, Director of Communications for the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, Ambassador Cornell Udofia, described Elliott as an experienced leader who deserves another opportunity.
“Desmond has been tested and trusted. With his experience and what he has already achieved, I believe he will deliver even more. Experience cannot be bought in the market,” Udofia said.
He urged residents to vote based on competence and proven performance.
“People should vote for experience, competence, and a credible brand that can further showcase Surulere,” he added.
Highlighting Elliott’s impact, Udofia noted that the lawmaker has contributed significantly to youth empowerment, women development, and support for the less privileged.
“The records are there for everyone to see. He has done well,” he said.
Also, a community leader, Prince Taofeek Dabiri, also commended Elliott’s accessibility and responsiveness to constituents.
“He is very accessible. If you reach out to him, he responds and addresses issues. That is what governance is about,” Dabiri said.
According to him, Elliott’s 12-year tenure in the Lagos State House of Assembly has been impactful.
“He has done so many things for Surulere. His contributions are countless,” he added.
