Surulere stakeholders reject Desmond Elliot’s 4th-term Lagos Assembly bid

A coalition of stakeholders in Surulere has opposed the bid of lawmaker Desmond Elliot to return for a fourth term in the Lagos State House of Assembly, raising fresh political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group, under the Surulere Accountability Forum, said Elliot’s previous three terms as representative of Surulere Constituency I had not delivered meaningful progress, citing weak constituency impact and limited legislative innovation.

Stakeholders argued that leadership in the constituency must reflect accountability and measurable development outcomes, insisting that Surulere requires new representation with fresh ideas and stronger responsiveness to local needs.

Community groups cite poor performance and demand leadership change

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Olanrewaju Badmus, the coalition said it reviewed Elliot’s legislative record and found it lacking in key areas such as infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and primary healthcare delivery.

The group claimed that despite three terms in office, there was little evidence of sustained constituency projects or impactful policy interventions addressing everyday challenges in the area.

It also criticised what it described as stagnation in leadership approach, arguing that Surulere has experienced “recycled ideas” rather than innovative solutions to its growing urban challenges.

Political tension rises as supporters push for fresh mandate

The rejection comes amid reports of counter-mobilisation from some residents and party stakeholders who had recently called for Elliot to be considered as a consensus candidate for the next election cycle.

This division highlights growing political competition within the constituency as preparations for 2027 begin to take shape across Lagos State.

Stakeholders behind the rejection say their position is not personal but rooted in democratic accountability, stressing that political leadership must remain “renewable” and responsive to changing public expectations.

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