Amid Rift, Desmond Elliot Kneels, Appeals To Gbajabiamila For Understanding
Kehinde Adeleye
Lagos State lawmaker Desmond Elliot has moved to mend ties with the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, amid reports of a disagreement between the two long time political allies.
Elliot, in an emotional appeal, reportedly went on his knees to beg Gbajabiamila as he sought to resolve the disagreement and preserve their longstanding political relationship.
The lawmaker acknowledged Gbajabiamila’s years of support, mentorship and investment in his political career, describing him as his “political father, mentor, and leader.”
Elliot said his respect and loyalty to the former Speaker of the House of Representatives remained unchanged.
“I wish to sincerely express my heartfelt appreciation to my political father, mentor, and leader, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, for his unwavering guidance, support, and investment in my political journey over the years,” Elliot said.
“My respect and loyalty to Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila remain unwavering.”
The lawmaker said his political journey had been driven largely by his commitment to the people of Surulere, while thanking his constituents for their continued support and confidence in him.
“Everything I have achieved politically is all for Surulerians. Thanks for the love and always believing in me,” he said.
Elliot, however, appealed to Gbajabiamila not to allow political differences or ambitions to destroy their relationship, which he described as one built over years of trust, guidance and shared commitment.
“It is therefore important for me to publicly state that no political ambition or temporary disagreement is worth damaging a relationship built on years of trust, guidance, and shared commitment to the progress of our party and our people,” he said.
The lawmaker also called for understanding and unity among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying political differences should not undermine the collective interest of the party.
“I appeal for understanding and unity as we continue to work together for the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the development of Surulere, and the advancement of Lagos State and Nigeria,” Elliot said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to what he described as the principles of loyalty, service and respect for party leadership.
“I remain committed to the ideals of loyalty, service, and respect for party leadership,” he said.
The reported reconciliation effort comes amid growing speculation over the relationship between Elliot and Gbajabiamila, who have worked closely together politically in Lagos and at the national level.
