Nollywood actor-turned-lawmaker, Desmond Elliot, has formally declared his intention to seek another term in the Lagos State House of Assembly, arguing that legislative experience and continuity remain critical to delivering greater development for Surulere Constituency 1.
Elliot, who is seeking a fourth term, Hon. made the declaration during his visit to his constituency, where he dismissed growing political propaganda around his ambition and insisted his focus remains on governance, legislative advancement and grassroots development.
Addressing concerns over alleged tensions with some groups in the constituency, Elliot described recent narratives against him as politically motivated.
“Well, they could have put a name or number. So, it’s just propaganda. You know it’s political propaganda,” he said.
Speaking on why he is pursuing another term after three consecutive tenures, the lawmaker said legislative seniority offers greater advantages for constituency development than starting afresh with an inexperienced representative.
“First and foremost, you can see the developmental strides we are putting in the legislature. The longer you stay, the better you become in experience for the state and for your people,” Elliot said.
“When you become a ranking member, what you get coming for your people is way better than when you start. There are areas we still need more roads, more jobs, and better opportunities. As a ranking member, you get more, better committees and better development for your people.”
According to him, continuity in office would also allow him to pursue broader institutional reforms, including the establishment of an Institute of Legislative Studies and civic education initiatives targeted at younger generations.
“I want to push certain things legislatively, like the Institute of Legislative Studies. I want to make sure younger kids begin to learn legislature right from primary and secondary school,” he said.
He added that he also plans to advocate for value-based social programmes, extracurricular revival and stronger orientation structures to rebuild societal morals.
“I want to push the narrative of bringing back courses like Boys’ Brigade, Girls’ Guide and extracurricular activities that help shape society. I also want to strengthen the Lagos State Orientation Agency to help restore morals, values and culture.”
On infrastructure, Elliot pointed to drainage and environmental interventions as part of his legislative achievements, particularly in flood prevention.
“Last year, we had almost perfect, zero flooding problems in Surulere. It didn’t come by magic,” he said.
Responding to criticism that he has had enough time in office to achieve more, Elliot argued that governance is a continuous process and that replacing experienced legislators with newcomers could slow progress.
“A government is a continuum. If you stop in the legislature, you start with somebody who is beginning from one. The things ranking members can secure, someone just starting will not get it,” he said.
While acknowledging ongoing political conversations around endorsements and leadership preferences, Elliot appealed for continued trust and support.
“Three terms is great. But guess what? Another term is fantastic,” he said.
Highlighting his record, Elliot cited interventions in roads, environmental sanitation, education and healthcare, including personal financial contributions to medical support for constituents.
“When you talk of education, roads, infrastructure, better environment, look at Surulere. I’ve even spent N75 million on someone just to repair her spine. It doesn’t even matter to me. The important thing is letting people feel the love,” he said.
