Former Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Lagos, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has explained why he crossed over to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying the move is part of a wider opposition coalition to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
The 2023 candidate, who ran against Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, declared that he is “better prepared” to take another shot at Lagos Government House.
Rhodes-Vivour stressed that his defection was not a betrayal of Labour Party but a strategic alliance, as the LP itself is split into factions. According to him, the ADC was adopted as the umbrella platform for opposition groups.
“A coalition is a coming together of several political parties, several political thinkers, and the ADC is the party adopted. I cannot say I dumped LP,” he told Arise TV.
The coalition, he said, has already attracted heavyweights from the PDP, APC, and LP, raising hopes of a stronger bloc to contest Lagos power in 2027.
Police Alleged to Block Opposition Rally
Rhodes-Vivour also accused the Lagos State Police Command of blocking his coalition’s rally in Alimosho, despite paying for the venue and securing prior clearance.
“We made payments and got approvals. On Thursday, police occupied the venue. But by Saturday, the APC was allowed to hold its rally at the same place under police protection. The Commissioner of Police must explain,” he said.
This echoes long-standing complaints by opposition politicians in Lagos, who argue that the APC enjoys preferential treatment when it comes to access to public venues and security cover.
2027 Ambition
Rhodes-Vivour confirmed he will run again in 2027, vowing to build on the momentum of 2023 where he polled strongly against Sanwo-Olu.
He said the coalition is learning from past mistakes and now expanding its grassroots networks to mount a more formidable challenge.
“By God’s grace, I intend to run in 2027. The people showed strength in 2023, and we are building deeper networks in communities. With this coalition, Lagos opposition is stronger and more united,” he added.
