Desmond Elliot, the Nollywood actor and lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, has declared his intention to seek a fourth term, saying his work in the constituency is far from over.
Gatekeepers News reports that speaking on a humid afternoon in Surulere, Elliot—dressed casually in a blue T-shirt and brown trousers—made the announcement before a crowd of residents and supporters who gathered in large numbers.
“Surulere has blessed me. I have studied up to doctorate level in legislative studies, which makes me well-grounded in lawmaking,” he said.
At a stakeholders’ meeting attended by party leaders, including former Surulere LGA chairman Tajudeen Ajide, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Elliot highlighted what he described as key achievements during his time in office.
He cited over 30 road projects, flood control efforts, healthcare interventions, and improvements in electricity supply as part of his scorecard.
“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.
“I am overwhelmed by the reception from the CDA, from the local government, from everywhere. It is fantastic. I am very honoured.”
Supporters lined major streets including Akerele, Shitta, Masha, and Benson, chanting his name and displaying placards with the slogan “Experience Over Experiment.” Several Nollywood figures were also present in solidarity.
Anchoring his campaign on continuity, Elliot argued that experience in governance is critical to sustained development.
“Experience cannot be bought. If you start afresh, it takes years to build. So why waste that time when you can continue with tested experience?” he said.
On flood control, he pointed to recent progress in the area.
“Flooding used to be a major issue, but last year, you did not hear of flooding in Surulere because we ensured constant desilting of drainage and canals,” he stated.
Elliot also credited collaborations with key stakeholders, including Femi Gbajabiamila and power distribution companies, for improved electricity supply.
“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, he noted that his office has sponsored outreach programmes involving surgeries and free medication, while also promising to expand job opportunities through his Nollywood network.
“Through my platform in Nollywood, I have been able to create opportunities, and I promise to do more,” he added.
Elliot said his return to the assembly would enhance his effectiveness as a ranking member.
“Experience brings greater capacity. As a ranking member, there are better opportunities to deliver more for my people,” he said.
The declaration signals the start of heightened political activity in Surulere ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Reacting, veteran actor Sunny McDonald, popularly known as “Ancestor,” described Elliot as a “winning team.”
“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.
Similarly, Cornell Udofia, director of communications for the Actors Guild of Nigeria (Lagos chapter), backed Elliot’s re-election bid.
“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 voters to prioritise competence and performance.
“People should vote for experience, competence, and a credible brand that can further showcase Surulere,” he added.
A community leader, Taofeek Dabiri, also praised the lawmaker’s accessibility.
“He is very accessible. If you reach out to him, he responds and addresses issues. That is what governance is about,” Dabiri said.
“He has done so many things for Surulere. His contributions are countless.”
