By Uboh-Ekong Treasure
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Lagos State, has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the move as a step toward uniting Nigeria’s opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Rhodes-Vivour made the announcement on Saturday during a well-attended rally in Alimosho, Lagos. In his address, he emphasized that the ADC offered a credible platform for building a broad-based coalition to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“This is a coalition that is meant to rescue Nigeria. Since after the 2023 elections, I have consistently said we cannot afford to divide the opposition going into the next election. We must come together, united, with a clear vision,” Rhodes-Vivour said.
The declaration was briefly marred by tension after security operatives reportedly sealed off the original venue, forcing a relocation. Supporters accused state authorities of intimidation and attempting to silence opposition voices. The Lagos Police Command has denied any political motive behind the action.
ADC leaders welcomed Rhodes-Vivour’s entry, calling it a major boost to their coalition-building efforts. Lagos ADC chairman George Ashiru described the move as “historic,” saying it signaled a new phase in the party’s efforts to consolidate opposition forces ahead of 2027.
The APC, however, dismissed the defection as inconsequential. Party officials in Lagos downplayed its significance, arguing that it would not alter the state’s political dynamics.
Analysts say Rhodes-Vivour’s move could re-energize opposition politics in Lagos, given his strong performance in the 2023 election and popularity among young voters. However, they caution that turning momentum into electoral victory will depend on whether the ADC and its coalition partners can maintain unity and avoid the infighting that has derailed similar efforts in the past.
Rhodes-Vivour, an architect and activist, came to prominence during the 2023 governorship race, where he ran a campaign that resonated with youth and urban voters. His switch to the ADC comes amid a broader push by opposition figures, including allies of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and ex-presidential candidate Peter Obi, to forge a “third force” capable of challenging the APC-PDP dominance.
