Nollywood actor and politician Desmond Elliot has expressed his gratitude to former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole for introducing him to the world of politics and facilitating his first meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
In a revealing interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Elliot shared how a single encounter set the course for his political journey.
“One day, Oshiomhole took me to Asiwaju and said, ‘This is my son, and he’s interested in politics.’ Asiwaju looked at me and said he knew me already and liked me. It was still a surprise to me,” Elliot recounted with a smile.
According to him, that moment was not just a personal milestone but a turning point that deepened his connection to Nigerian politics.
Reflecting on the recent 2023 elections, where he contested against fellow actor Olumide Oworu, Elliot shared mixed feelings.
While he maintained that he held no grudges against Oworu, he admitted feeling let down by some of his senior colleagues in the industry who openly supported his opponent.
“I wasn’t upset with him,” he explained. “I was hurt by the veterans who endorsed him. These are people I have looked up to, those I thought would stand by me. But politics is a game of interest, and I have come to understand that.”
Elliot’s candid words shed light on the personal challenges celebrities face when they transition into politics, where alliances can be unpredictable.
Beyond the drama of electoral politics, Desmond Elliot also opened up about a life-threatening experience he had during the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which shook the nation.
The protests, which called for the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) due to widespread allegations of extrajudicial killings and extortion, saw millions of Nigerian youths taking to the streets.
Recalling his terrifying encounter, Elliot said, “There was a day during the protests when I narrowly escaped an attack. I didn’t even know who the attackers were. I was scared for my life. It made me realize just how volatile things were.”
His account adds a personal dimension to the chaotic and emotional period in Nigeria’s recent history.
Desmond’s involvement in the #EndSARS saga, however, was not without controversy. During a plenary session at the Lagos State House of Assembly, where he served as a lawmaker, Elliot infamously referred to Nigerian youths as “children.”
His remarks were met with widespread backlash on social media, with many accusing him of being disconnected from the struggles of young Nigerians.
Addressing this in the interview, Elliot admitted that his choice of words was regrettable.
“Looking back, I could have expressed myself better. I never meant to disrespect anyone, especially the youth who are the future of this country,” he confessed, acknowledging the power of words and the importance of empathy in leadership.
Despite the ups and downs of his political journey, Elliot remains determined to serve his constituents and continue his career in public service.
He emphasized that his experience in both Nollywood and politics has taught him resilience and the value of staying true to one’s beliefs.
“Politics is tough, but it is a calling. Just like acting, you have to put yourself out there, face the critics, and stay grounded,” he stated.
For Desmond Elliot, the road has not always been smooth, but his story is one of persistence, ambition, and a willingness to learn.
