By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Lagos, Nigeria — Desmond Olushola Elliott, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Surulere Constituency I, has formally declared his intention to seek a return mandate ahead of the 2027 general elections. This move has sparked a wave of mixed reactions from constituents.
In an official statement shared via his social media platforms, Elliott expressed gratitude to residents and stakeholders while confirming that he had obtained his party’s nomination form under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“I wish to formally inform all Surulereans… that I have obtained the nomination form to seek a return mandate to the Lagos State House of Assembly,” he said. “This decision is borne out of a continued commitment to serve, to consolidate on the progress we have made together, and to further advance the collective aspirations of our people.”
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The lawmaker, first elected in 2015, emphasised that his return would position him as a ranking member of the Assembly, which he argued would translate into greater benefits for the constituency.
“By the grace of God Almighty, I have become one of the oldest members in the House, and in a structure where older members are given priority consideration, we can rest assured Surulere will benefit immensely,” Elliott added.
However, shortly after the announcement, reactions from constituents—particularly across social media—revealed a groundswell of opinion urging the lawmaker to step aside after what would amount to three consecutive terms in office by 2027.
Several residents, while acknowledging his contributions over the years, called for political succession and fresh representation in the constituency.
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A constituent, who identified himself as Adewale Johnson, wrote: “Honourable, you have tried for Surulere since 2015. This is the time to mentor others and allow a new face to continue the work.”
Another resident, Mrs Funke Adebayo, expressed a similar sentiment, noting: “Leadership also means knowing when to step back. Your experience can still benefit Surulere if you support another capable aspirant.”
Some commenters argued that Elliott’s public appreciation message would have resonated more positively if it had been accompanied by an endorsement of a new candidate.
One youth leader in the constituency stated: “We respect him, but many of us believe Surulere deserves a fresh perspective. He should use his influence to support the next generation.”
Despite the criticisms, there were also pockets of support for the lawmaker, with some party loyalists highlighting his legislative experience and constituency projects as reasons to back his re-election bid.
Elliott, a former Nollywood actor turned politician, has represented Surulere Constituency I since his election during the 2015 general polls. If re-elected in 2027, he would complete 12 years in the Assembly, a tenure some political observers say places him among the more experienced lawmakers in Lagos State.
Political analysts note that debates around tenure, performance, and generational transition are becoming increasingly prominent within Nigeria’s political landscape, especially at the state legislative level.
The Merit Newspaper reports that as the 2027 election cycle gradually gathers momentum, the situation in Surulere reflects a broader conversation within the APC and other parties about balancing experience with the demand for new leadership.
For now, Elliott has urged his supporters to remain calm and united.
“Let us continue to uphold peace, unity, and respect as we move forward in this political journey together,” he said.
Whether the calls for him to step aside will influence party dynamics or voter decisions in the coming months remains to be seen, but the conversation has undoubtedly set the tone for what could become a closely watched contest in Surulere Constituency I.
