Lagos lawmaker and actor-turned-politician Desmond Elliot has insisted that he does not steal public funds, saying his approach to politics is based on service rather than personal enrichment.
Speaking during an interview on The Morayo Brown Show, Elliot made the remark while responding to an appeal for support from a non-profit organisation assisting widows and widowers.
“I will look for ₦1 million to donate to you. I don’t know where I will get the money from because, in my own kind of politics, I don’t steal.”
The Surulere Constituency I representative said corruption persists because many politicians fear losing power and financial security, leading them to accumulate wealth while in office.
According to him, he has chosen a different path and remains confident that integrity will sustain him even after leaving public office.
“By God’s grace, I will not beg for food tomorrow.”
Elliot also reminded public office holders that political power is temporary and urged leaders to focus on serving the people rather than enriching themselves.
Reflecting on his time in office, he described improved electricity supply in Surulere as one of his biggest achievements, adding that the area has witnessed significant development over the years.
The lawmaker further advocated a political system designed to suit Nigeria’s unique realities instead of copying models from other countries.
On the 2027 political landscape, Elliot said he has not yet seen anyone capable of replacing President Bola Tinubu.
Desmond Elliot was first elected into the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2015 and has since been re-elected to represent Surulere Constituency I.
Source: The Morayo Brown Show
