Former Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has formally defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a major shift in Nigeria’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The declaration took place at an event in Lagos on Saturday, where Rhodes-Vivour joined a coalition of opposition parties under the ADC platform. The coalition, formed in July, aims to build a formidable third force capable of challenging the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
Rhodes-Vivour’s Declaration
Speaking at the event, Rhodes-Vivour described his defection as part of a broader mission to unite the opposition.
“I am happy to become part of this family. I’m looking forward to the union and governance that this party will bring to Nigerians. My prayer is that God will grant our leaders the wisdom to define a new path for our beloved country,” he said.
He emphasized that the opposition must not go into the next election fragmented.
“We cannot afford to divide the opposition going into the next election. We must come together through a robust coalition that will stand a chance in 2027 to deliver this country.”
Clash with Security Operatives
Rhodes-Vivour also alleged that the police attempted to frustrate the event. According to his aide, Olalekan Anjolaiya, organisers had duly notified security agencies, but operatives barred him and his supporters from accessing the venue in Alimosho. The declaration was eventually moved to another location.
ADC Welcomes Rhodes-Vivour
ADC Lagos Chairman, George Ashiru, hailed the defection as historic, noting that it signified the maturing of an opposition coalition that had been in motion since the 2023 elections.
“We are not affirming one man, we are affirming a movement. What brother Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour represents is the leadership of a movement that shook Lagos in the last election,” Ashiru said.
Calls for a United Opposition
Professor Ola Olateju, who represented former Vice President Atiku Abubakar at the event, urged members to see ADC not just as a political party but as a people-driven movement.
“ADC is not just a political party; it’s a movement, a movement of the people. It is an exodus. We are moving in order to rescue Nigeria,” he declared.
What This Means for 2027
Rhodes-Vivour’s entry into ADC strengthens efforts to form a credible alternative to the APC. With prominent figures rallying under the coalition, the 2027 elections could see a more coordinated opposition front, potentially reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
No comments:
Post a Comment