Desmond Elliot, the Nollywood actor and Lagos State lawmaker, has been spotted on a movie set with fellow actor Ibrahim Chatta, days after losing the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for Surulere Constituency I. The photographs, which have gone viral on social media, show Elliot with his hair in plaited cornrows decorated with cowries, a style that suggests a period or traditional film role.
In the images, Elliot and Chatta are seen standing side by side, engaged in what appears to be a discussion with a third person whose face is not visible in the frame. The setting, complete with Elliot's distinctive hairstyle, has led many to speculate that he is filming a traditional or historical movie.
Back on Set with Ibrahim Chatta
The photos shared on Elliot's official Instagram account capture the actor in what looks like a movie location, with the two actors standing close together. Although the nature of the project has not been disclosed, the cowries adorning Elliot's cornrows have become a talking point, with fans praising his transformation and others poking fun at his new look.
For Elliot, this marks a notable shift from the corridors of power to the film set. His return to Nollywood is seen by many as a pragmatic move after his political setback.
How Elliot Lost the APC Primary
Elliot's return to the movie set comes after his political ambitions were dealt a major blow. He lost the APC ticket to contest for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly earlier this year. His opponent, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, defeated him in the primary election for Surulere Constituency I, effectively ending his bid to return to the legislature.
The loss was a significant turn in the career of the actor-turned-politician, who has been serving as a lawmaker in the Lagos State House of Assembly. The primary result means he will not be representing his constituency in the next assembly, opening a new chapter that appears to be centred on acting.
Fans Share Mixed Reactions
As expected, social media erupted with reactions to Elliot's return to the movie set. Many Nigerians found humour and wisdom in equal measure, with some commenting on his hairstyle and others applauding his decision to have a backup plan.
One user, @ayamjoel, wrote: "You think say that prayer 'make Nigeria no happen to you' na joke sha"
@bobo_shoes_ commented: "This isn't wisdom or human as that poster thinks. It's actually great. Politicians should have a career outside of politics. It would reduce the desperation to stay in power by all means since they have something to fall back to. That's how it's supposed to be."
@abigailhabby said: "Always have a backup plan in this life"
@princebutnowking joked: "Karma first start with his hairline."
@justoneday247 reacted: "Back to work/outside. No time. I hope he now knows what we have been saying since"
A Political Career Marked by Controversy
This is not the first time Elliot has found himself at the centre of public conversation. Legit.ng had earlier reported that he apologised to fans over controversial remarks he made about Nigerian youths during the 2020 #EndSARS protests.
At the height of the demonstrations, Elliot, who represents Surulere Constituency in the Lagos State House of Assembly, came under heavy criticism after referring to some Nigerian youths as "children" and expressing concerns about the influence of social media. The comments triggered widespread backlash, with many Nigerians accusing him of being out of touch with the struggles of young people.
Since then, the remarks have continued to resurface whenever discussions about his public image emerge. His recent return to Nollywood, however, offers a different narrative—one of resilience and reinvention. Whether he intends to fully relaunch his acting career or simply take a break from politics, his fans are keen to see what he does next.
