Desmond Elliot Kneels, Begs Gbajabiamila for Forgiveness After Political Rift
Nollywood Actor and former Lagos State lawmaker, Desmond Olusola Elliot, has publicly apologised to his political mentor and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, following months of political disagreement that reportedly strained their long-standing relationship.
In a video circulating widely on social media, Elliot was seen going on his knees before Gbajabiamila while pleading for forgiveness and seeking reconciliation with the influential politician.
The gesture is also being interpreted as an attempt by the former lawmaker to mend political ties and reaffirm his place within the All Progressives Congress (APC) political structure in Lagos State.
Global Mirror News gathered that the disagreement between Elliot and Gbajabiamila was linked to political developments surrounding the representation of Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Elliot, who had represented the constituency, was reportedly interested in securing a fourth term in the Assembly. However, Gbajabiamila and the Lagos State APC leadership were said to have withdrawn their support for his ambition and instead backed Barakat Odunuga-Bakare.
Reports indicated that Elliot was directed to step aside from the race and support the party’s preferred candidate. He, however, initially resisted the decision and insisted on defending his seat.
The disagreement reportedly intensified during the APC primary election process, with Elliot eventually withdrawing from the exercise.
At the time, the actor-turned-politician alleged that he had been subjected to intense political pressure and that some of his supporters had faced intimidation.
Following the development, Elliot was also reported to have hinted at the possibility of contesting under another political platform, a move that further strained his relationship with the party hierarchy and Gbajabiamila, whom he has consistently described as his political mentor and benefactor.
However, the latest development suggests a significant change in tone, with Elliot now publicly seeking forgiveness and reconciliation.
In a statement shared on his Instagram page, Elliot expressed appreciation to Gbajabiamila for his guidance, support and investment in his political journey over the years.
He described Gbajabiamila as his political father, mentor and leader, while stressing that his respect and loyalty to him remained intact.
Elliot wrote:
«“I, Hon. Desmond Olusola Elliott, 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.»
«“My respect and loyalty to Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila remain unwavering.»
«“Everything I have achieved politically is all for Surulerians. Thanks for the love and always believing in me.»
«“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.»
«“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.»
«“I remain committed to the ideals of loyalty, service, and respect for party leadership.”»
Global Mirror News reports that Elliot’s apology comes against the backdrop of growing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, when party loyalty, alliances and internal reconciliation are expected to play important roles.
Elliot, who built a successful career in Nollywood before venturing into politics, became a prominent political figure in Lagos after winning election to the Lagos State House of Assembly to represent Surulere Constituency I.
His political relationship with Gbajabiamila has been regarded as an important part of his journey into politics, making the recent disagreement between the two men particularly significant within the Surulere political structure.
By publicly apologising and reaffirming his loyalty to Gbajabiamila and the APC, Elliot appears to be seeking to put the disagreement behind him and restore the relationship that existed between him and his political mentor.
Global Mirror News further reports that the video showing Elliot on his knees before Gbajabiamila has generated reactions among social media users, with some describing the gesture as a sign of humility and a desire for reconciliation, while others continue to debate the political circumstances that led to the disagreement.
The latest development also comes as political stakeholders across Lagos intensify preparations and realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
For now, Elliot has made his position clear: he is seeking understanding, unity and reconciliation, while reaffirming his commitment to the APC, Surulere, Lagos State and continued respect for party leadership.
