Nigerian actor-turned-politician, Desmond Elliot, has sparked outrage after a video circulated on social media showing him distributing perfumes, markers, and jotters to youths on the streets of Lagos. The video, which captured scenes of individuals scrambling to receive the shared items during what appeared to be an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally, has drawn criticism from many Nigerians.
Elliot, who was re-elected in the 2023 general elections as the lawmaker representing Surulere constituency, faced backlash as netizens questioned the appropriateness of such gifts, particularly in the context of widespread economic challenges facing the nation.
Despite the apparent enthusiasm of the recipients in the video, a significant portion of the public condemned Elliot’s actions, arguing that the distribution of perfumes and stationery is out of touch with the harsh economic realities experienced by many Nigerians. Critics accused the politician of being disconnected from the struggles of the populace, emphasizing the pressing need for solutions to the country’s economic woes.
The backlash highlights the sensitivity surrounding the conduct of public figures, especially in the realm of politics, as citizens expect elected officials to address substantive issues such as unemployment, inflation, and poverty. The incident has fueled a broader conversation about the responsibilities of politicians in addressing the urgent needs of the people during challenging times.
See some reactions to the video of Desmond Elliot here
@don_marrtyynz said: “Naaah Desmond Eliot really fell off, see what that party has turned him into. Bruhhhh 😭😭😭😭😭”
@DareHardy09 wrote: “APC has weaponised poverty to the extent they can share gala and the masses will be happy 😭😭”
@franksdonald stated: “Air freshener as per say dem dey stink with poverty, Awwwwwww I love it 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭”
@teablack75 opined: “It’s not inhumane to be honest… It’s self inflicted suffering & embarrassment. Why go there in the first place??? Why?”
@47kasz added: “Jotter and marker to write & mark today’s date cos them go too Regret”
@Shehuuidris said: “People are hungry, una they share perfume 🥲”
Watch video here