Surulere 2027: Stakeholders Split as Fourth-Term Bid Sparks Debate
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A growing political divide has emerged in Surulere following opposition to the fourth-term ambition of Desmond Elliot, who currently represents Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
A coalition operating under the Surulere Accountability Forum has openly rejected Elliot’s continued stay in office, citing dissatisfaction with his performance over three consecutive terms. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the group’s spokesman, Olanrewaju Badmus, said the decision followed an extensive review involving community leaders, youth groups, small business owners, and civil society organisations.
According to Badmus, the consensus among stakeholders is that the constituency requires a fresh direction, noting that key challenges such as deteriorating infrastructure, rising youth unemployment, and gaps in primary healthcare remain largely unaddressed.
He emphasised that the group’s position was rooted in a commitment to accountability rather than personal sentiment, stressing the need for leadership that aligns with the evolving expectations of the people and delivers measurable progress.
“The call is for renewed energy, innovative thinking, and leadership that prioritises real impact,” he said, urging residents and party stakeholders to back candidates capable of advancing the constituency’s development agenda.
However, the resistance to Elliot’s fourth-term bid has not gone unchallenged. In a contrasting development, another group of party loyalists and residents recently staged a rally in support of the lawmaker, advocating his adoption as a consensus candidate. Supporters argue that his tenure has delivered meaningful representation and continuity.
The unfolding scenario underscores a widening split among stakeholders as political activities intensify ahead of the All Progressives Congress primaries for the 2027 general elections, setting the stage for what could become a fiercely contested race in Surulere Constituency I.
