A group of stakeholders in Surulere has publicly rejected the plan by Desmond Elliot to seek a fourth term in the Lagos State House of Assembly, as preparations for the 2027 general elections begin.
The coalition, speaking through its spokesperson, Olanrewaju Badmus, released a statement on Wednesday expressing dissatisfaction with the lawmaker’s performance over his three previous terms.
According to the group, which includes community leaders, youth representatives, small business owners, and civil society organisations, Elliot’s tenure has not delivered meaningful progress. They cited poor legislative impact, lack of innovation in policymaking, and insufficient attention to pressing local issues.
Badmus, who spoke on behalf of the Surulere Accountability Forum, criticized the lawmaker for what he described as limited constituency development and an inability to address key challenges such as deteriorating infrastructure, youth unemployment, and gaps in primary healthcare.
He emphasized that the group’s stance was not personal but rooted in a desire for more effective leadership. He noted that after three terms in office, residents expected tangible improvements, but instead experienced what he called stagnation and a repetition of ideas without significant results.
The coalition also dismissed claims that their opposition was influenced by recent events, maintaining that their position reflects a long-standing concern about governance in the constituency.
Reaffirming their commitment to democratic values, the stakeholders called for leadership that prioritizes the needs of the people and encourages broader participation. They urged residents to support candidates with fresh ideas and a clear vision for the future of Surulere.
Meanwhile, the development comes shortly after a separate group of residents and members of the APC staged a rally in support of Elliot, urging party leaders to endorse him as the consensus candidate for the upcoming election, citing his contributions while in office.