NEWS: DESMOND ELLIOT SAYS HE DOES NOT STEAL PUBLIC FUNDS IN POLITICS

 DESMOND ELLIOT SAYS HE DOES NOT STEAL PUBLIC FUNDS IN POLITICS

Lagos State lawmaker and Nollywood actor-turned-politician, Desmond Elliot, has stated that his approach to politics is centered on service and integrity, insisting that he does not steal public funds while holding office.

Elliot, who represents Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, made the remarks during an appearance on The Morayo Brown Show on Tuesday while discussing governance, leadership, and his political journey.

The conversation came as a non-profit organisation, Christian Widows & Widowers Empowered, featured on the programme to raise awareness about the welfare challenges faced by widows and widowers across Nigeria.

During the discussion, Elliot pledged financial support to the organisation, saying he would look for N1 million to assist their cause despite not having immediate access to the funds.

According to him, his style of politics does not involve diverting public resources for personal gain.

“I will look for N1 million to donate. I don’t know where I will get the money from because, in my own kind of politics, I don’t steal, and that is the truth,” he said.

Speaking further on corruption in Nigeria’s political system, Elliot argued that insecurity about political survival often drives many politicians to accumulate wealth while in office.

He explained that many public office holders fear losing political relevance unexpectedly and therefore begin storing money for themselves and their families.

According to him, uncertainty within political structures contributes significantly to corruption among office holders.

The lawmaker, however, said he had chosen a different path and remains confident about his future despite not enriching himself through politics.

“But I did not keep for myself, and by God’s grace I will not beg for food tomorrow,” he stated.

Elliot also advised politicians across the country to remember that political power is temporary and should be seen as an opportunity to serve rather than dominate others.

He noted that leadership positions are not permanent and that occupying public office does not automatically make anyone better than others.

Reflecting on his achievements since becoming a legislator, Elliot identified improvements in electricity supply within Surulere Constituency I as one of his biggest accomplishments.

He said Surulere had witnessed major infrastructural improvements over the past decade, particularly in electricity access and healthcare services.

The lawmaker also advocated for a political structure designed around Nigeria’s unique realities instead of adopting democratic systems copied entirely from other countries.

As part of his suggestion, Elliot proposed long-term political planning that allows structured regional leadership rotation over extended periods.

On national politics, he said he currently does not see any political figure capable of replacing President Bola Tinubu, whom he described as maintaining a strong political position.

Desmond Elliot entered politics in 2014 under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was first elected to the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015. He has since retained his seat through re-election.