Surulere Stakeholders Issue Stern Warning to Gbajabiamila Over Desmond Elliot's Fourth-Term Bid
A coalition of stakeholders in Surulere has issued a strong caution to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, against any attempt to impose Desmond Elliot for a fourth term in the Lagos State House of Assembly. The group, which includes community leaders and political actors, argues that such a move would blatantly disregard the will of the people and potentially undermine the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the constituency.
Criticism of Elliot's Over 11-Year Tenure as Underwhelming
In a statement released by Mr Olanrewaju Badmus of the Surulere Accountability Front (SAF), the stakeholders described Elliot's time in office as deeply disappointing. Badmus emphasized that Surulere has suffered for 11 years due to this representation, highlighting that Elliot was never part of the local political structure and has consistently failed to justify the confidence placed in him. He stated, "We voted for Desmond Elliot because of pleas from Gbajabiamila in the past, now Gbajabiamila should know we cannot afford a fourth-term experiment in failure."
Residents Voice Widespread Dissatisfaction with Performance
Several residents have echoed this sentiment, questioning Elliot's achievements over more than a decade in office. Mr Sheriffdeen Ojon, a Surulere resident, noted that reports of a fourth-term ambition have been met with broad opposition. He argued that Elliot's accomplishments are minimal, largely benefiting from Gbajabiamila's work rather than his own initiatives. Ojon added, "Without Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila's influence, a third term may not have been possible, given the lack of notable accomplishments after over 11 years at the state House of Assembly."
Appeal for Transparent Candidate Selection Process
The stakeholders have urged Gbajabiamila to respect the prevailing mood among constituents and allow a credible candidate to emerge through a transparent process. Ojon appealed, "Sir Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, your reputation as a good listener and effective leader is well acknowledged in Surulere. We trust that the voices of your constituents will be heard and yield positive outcomes." They emphasized the need for responsive and accessible representation that Surulere deserves.
Warning of Electoral Consequences for APC
The group warned that insisting on Elliot's candidacy despite widespread opposition could severely harm the APC's chances in future elections. Badmus stated, "If APC truly wants to win elections in Surulere, it must stop the imposition of failure on our people." He highlighted that rejection of Elliot is broad and emphatic across communities like Bank Olemo, Olawale Dawodu, Iponri, and Masha, with residents united in saying 'enough is enough.'
Suggestions for Elliot to Step Aside
Stakeholders suggested that it would be prudent for Elliot to step aside after years in office. Ojon remarked, "It would be prudent for Desmond Elliot to step aside and allow another qualified candidate to run for State Assembly Constituency 1. After 12 years in the House of Assembly, it may be time for him to refocus on his acting and directing career in Nollywood while Surulere gets the responsive, accessible representation it deserves."
Reaffirmation of APC Loyalty Amid Demands
Despite their concerns, the stakeholders reiterated their commitment to the APC but insisted that the party must listen to its grassroots base. Badmus concluded, "We will not work against our own future. If the party listens to the people and rejects imposition, Surulere will stand firmly with APC in 2027. If it does otherwise, it should be ready to bear the consequences at the polls."
