#EndSARS: Desmond Elliot apologises for calling ‘protesters’ children

NOLLYWOOD actor, director and member of Lagos State Assembly representing Surulere State Constituency, Desmond Elliot has apologised for referring to the youths as ‘children.’

While making a submission last week during plenary at the Assembly, Elliot had said that social media contributed to the carnage that took place after the protests; slammed the youths and celebrities for their roles.

The youths and celebrities have been on the lawmaker’s jugular ever since.

In the statement released yesterday, he apologised, saying he didn’t mean to be insensitive. 

His statement reads, ”I have read your honest feedback& suggestions & I sincerely apologise for addressing the youth as “Children.” I did not mean to be insensitive with this, it was borne out of the magnitude of destruction and looting of businesses I witnessed when I went on a tour of my constituency.

“I saw women crying and my constituent members distraught as a result of the damages inflicted on their source of livelihood. I was moved by this while giving my submission on the floor of the House.

“I allowed my emotions get the better of me and for this I apologise to everyone my earlier statements may have hurt.

“Please, understand that even the best of us make mistakes. This is why, moving forward, I ask that we all try to engage constructively on the issues that affect all of us. I promise to do the same.

“The pain that I feel for my constituents, the calls for assistance that I continue to get, and the need to mitigate against further destruction and violence will continue to drive my engagements and my work.

“I thank you all for expressing your views, and in the future, I promise to be more conscious and aware. Together, we will build a better Nigeria. End.”