Lagos lawmaker Desmond Elliott has expressed strong reservations about politicians who switch political camps, arguing that such moves do not bring meaningful change to Nigeria and often reflect transactional politics rather than genuine ideology or governance .
Speaking during an interview on The Morayo Show, the Surulere Constituency 1 representative questioned the value of defecting from one political figure to another .
"I ask myself, if I leave Asiwaju and I go to Obi, what is the difference between Asiwaju and Obi? If I leave Obi and I go to Atiku, what is the difference?" Elliott queried .
Defends Record in Office
The actor-turned-politician defended his tenure, highlighting improvements in power supply and healthcare in Surulere . "If you look at Surulere 10 years ago, it was a horrible place to live in, but now there's electricity, healthcare and all," he said, adding: "My own kind of politician, I don't steal money" .
He stressed that leadership is temporary and should be approached with humility and service . "We are not here forever. You are in that particular place for a reason. Not because you are better than the next person. Trust me, there are way better people than you," he stated .
Proposes 30-Year Political Plan
Elliott criticized Nigeria's culture of transactional politics, where alliances are driven by personal gain rather than governance . He proposed a long-term political roadmap to ensure structured leadership rotation and policy continuity across regions .
"Let's have a 30-year plan. For the next 5 years, let the West rule. The next 5 years, let the North rule. The next 5 years, let the Central rule. Yet, we're already following through a particular plan that leads us through 30 years," he suggested .
Sees No Clear Successor to Tinubu
Addressing criticism of President Tinubu's administration, Elliott admitted he does not currently see a political figure capable of replacing the President . "Who is the next saviour that can remove Asiwaju from what he's doing presently? I cannot see yet," he said .
His comments come after he lost the APC primary election in May 2026, ending his bid for a fourth term .
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