Rival Groups Clash Over Desmond’ Elliot’s Fourth-Term Bid
A coalition of stakeholders in Surulere has rejected the bid by Desmond Elliot to seek a fourth term as the lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly. The group, under the aegis of the Surulere Accountability Forum, made its position known in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lagos by its spokesman, Olanrewaju Badmus. Badmus said the decision followed a broad assessment of Elliot’s performance over three terms, which, according to the coalition, fell short of expectations. According to him, community leaders, youth groups, small business representatives, and civil society organisations participated in the review and collectively agreed that the constituency required a new direction. He added that after three terms in office, constituents expected clearer evidence of development and policy innovation, noting that the area continues to grapple with infrastructure decay, youth unemployment, and inadequate primary healthcare. The coalition maintained that its stance was not driven by personal bias but by a commitment to accountability and democratic principles. It stressed the need for leadership that reflects the evolving aspirations of the people and prioritises tangible outcomes. Badmus also called on residents and party stakeholders to support candidates with fresh ideas and renewed energy capable of advancing the constituency. “As stakeholders, we remain committed to promoting inclusive participation and ensuring that leadership remains responsive to the needs of the people,” he said. The development comes as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the primaries of the All Progressives Congress for the 2027 general elections. However, the opposition to Elliot’s fourth-term ambition is not without contrast. Earlier, a separate group of party members and residents reportedly staged a rally in support of the lawmaker, urging party leaders to adopt him as a consensus candidate, citing what they described as his impactful representation. The emerging divide among stakeholders signals a potentially competitive race for the Surulere Constituency I seat as the election cycle approaches.