Rhodes-Vivour defects to ADC
By Jeffrey Agbo
Former governorship candidate of the Labour Party in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), declaring the party as a vehicle for building a strong opposition coalition to challenge the ruling establishment before the 2027 elections.
The declaration ceremony, held in Alimosho Local Government Area on Saturday, was nearly marred by suspected thugs allegedly attempting to disrupt proceedings. Police operatives were also seen at the venue, sparking unease among supporters.
Addressing the gathering after his defection, Rhodes-Vivour said: “We are not holding a political rally but a political meeting, which we have constitutional rights to do. However, we will meet with the Commissioner of Police to know why his men are here and whether they are carrying out their duty of providing us protection or otherwise.”
He explained that his switch to ADC stemmed from the need to forge unity among opposition parties.
“This coalition is meant to rescue Nigeria. Since the 2023 elections, I have said we cannot afford to divide the opposition ahead of 2027. We must come together through a robust, strong coalition that can deliver Nigeria from those who hold power through thuggery, violence, and intimidation,” he said.
Rhodes-Vivour warned that unchecked electoral malpractice would keep governance weak and citizens powerless.
“I am happy to become part of this family. My prayer is that God will grant our leaders the wisdom to come together and define a new path for Nigeria,” he added.
The ADC Chairman in Lagos, George Ashiru, hailed the defection as a milestone for coalition politics.
“We are not affirming one man; we are affirming a movement. What Rhodes-Vivour represents is the leadership of a movement that shook Lagos in the last election. The coalition did not start three months ago—it began two years ago, and today we are celebrating it,” Ashiru said.
He outlined ADC’s vision as “a global Lagos — Lagos for everybody, where citizens and their children have opportunities for the future.”
Also speaking at the event, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, represented by Professor Ola Olateju, praised the coalition-building efforts.
“ADC is not just a political party; it is a movement of the people. With this philosophy, anybody can become anything irrespective of ethnic group, religion, or class,” he said.
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