Desmond Elliot in this new interview with Vanguard speaks again about his political career and why he ventured into politics. He also spoke about how he has campaigned for top politicians including a president in the past which gave him the experience he has now, and why he can never leave Nollywood and lastly agreeing that there is money in politics, after all you use money to play the game before getting there. Enjoy!
Why did you suddenly go into politics?
I didn’t suddenly go into politics; politics has always been a part of me. I’ve been involved in campaigns for some Governors and even the President. I’ve been on the campaign trail for very long time now. Even though I have never sought any elective office before I have always had it at back of my mind as something I would do one day. It is not a surprise at all, it’s a well-thought out action and I came very prepared. I didn’t just sleep one day and say okay, it’s time to go into politics
If you were elected into the Lagos State House of Assembly, what change should people expect from you?
A Lot; First, I’m young, dynamic, very vibrant and fast thinking. I’ve had lots of links with corporate bodies, private bodies and nonprofit organizations. Through me I know a lot can be achieved because of my articulated experience. Just wait and see me in action.
Why Surulere?
That’s my constituency; I think it’s good I face my constituency for now
Are you going to leave Nollywood if you get elected?
I can never leave Nollywood, I am only going to help in propagating and promoting laws that would help to structure the industry and make it better and improve it from the present situation – that’s it.
Many people believe that entertainers are getting into politics because of money?
Granted, yes, there’s money in politics but have you asked yourself one question, is it sand that you use to play politics? The answer is No. What you’re playing politics with is money. I’m not so much into what government is going to be giving as allowance, my idea as a fresh mind is how to harness the resources around me and provide for the people.
Because if I just stick with what government is giving, then I am just going to be like everybody else. But when I harness resources from both home and abroad, harness NGOs, harness non-profit organizations, corporate bodies, private bodies, and bring all into creating social responsibility and social development in the people, then I know I’m achieving something that has not been done before.
That is the major difference I’m bringing in; using me and the platform I have to create a lot and to make so many changes. It’s already started.
