Nollywood actor turned lawmaker Desmond Elliot dismissed reports of a rift with Femi Gbajabiamila on Thursday. Elliot also declared his bid for a fourth term in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Elliot spoke during a visit to his Surulere Constituency I. He described the alleged disagreement with Gbajabiamila as unfounded. “There is no feud between me and Femi Gbajabiamila,” Elliot stated. He added that both men maintained a cordial relationship.
Earlier in April, a coalition of Surulere stakeholders urged Gbajabiamila against imposing Elliot for another term. The group, known as the Surulere Accountability Forum, issued a statement through its spokesman Olanrewaju Badmus.
The coalition claimed Elliot’s three terms did not satisfy the people. They warned that any imposition could create disaffection among party supporters and weaken the All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 elections.
Rival groups clashed over the bid. Some residents organized a rally in support of Elliot, while others rejected his continued representation. Political observers noted that Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, a former Special Adviser on Housing to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emerged as a strong contender. She enjoys backing linked to Gbajabiamila.
Elliot formally announced his intention to seek re-election. He represented Surulere Constituency I since 2015. During his Thursday engagement, he focused on his achievements and commitment to the constituency. He called on supporters to back his fourth-term ambition.
Gbajabiamila serves as Chief of Staff to the President. He previously acted as Speaker of the House of Representatives. Elliot stressed that rumors of conflict aimed to distract from development issues.
Stakeholders continued to express mixed views. The coalition insisted on fresh representation to strengthen democracy within the party. Elliot, however maintained that he delivered effective service and deserved another opportunity based on his record.
The development heightened political activities in Surulere ahead of party primaries. Both sides mobilized support as the 2027 general elections approached.
