The political atmosphere in Lagos took a new turn at the weekend as the 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate, Mr. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The declaration, which was held on Saturday in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State, attracted a large crowd of supporters and political figures. The event was almost disrupted as suspected thugs tried to stop the programme, but police operatives were on ground to maintain order.
Rhodes-Vivour, who became popular in Lagos politics during the 2023 governorship elections, said his defection to ADC was not just about changing parties but about uniting the opposition to rescue Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at the gathering, he explained that Nigeria needs a coalition strong enough to challenge those holding on to power through violence and intimidation.
In his words: “We are not holding a political rally but a political meeting, which we have constitutional rights to do. We will meet with the Commissioner of Police to know why his men are here and whether they are here to protect us or otherwise. My decision to join ADC is not about personal ambition. It is about the survival of our democracy. 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.”
The former Labour Party candidate also noted that governance will remain ineffective if such practices continue unchecked, stressing that citizens will keep losing their voice in the democratic process. He added, “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.”
The defection of Rhodes-Vivour was warmly received by the ADC leadership. The Lagos State Chairman of the party, Mr. George Ashiru, described the development as a major milestone in efforts to strengthen opposition politics in Nigeria. Ashiru said: “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. This coalition did not start three months ago—it began two years ago, and today we are celebrating it.”
According to him, ADC’s vision goes beyond political contests. He explained that the party stands for “a global Lagos — a Lagos for everybody, where citizens and their children have opportunities for the future.”
In a show of wider support, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also sent a goodwill message to the event. Represented by Professor Ola Olateju, Atiku described ADC as more than just a political party. He said: “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. This is what Nigeria needs to overcome its challenges.”
Party leaders described the ceremony as one of the most important affirmation programmes for ADC in recent times. They said Rhodes-Vivour’s entry into the party symbolises the beginning of a stronger coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. Many of his supporters, who trooped to the venue in their numbers, expressed confidence that his move will inject fresh energy into the opposition in Lagos and beyond.
The declaration was not without tension as some suspected political thugs allegedly attempted to disrupt the event. However, police officers were quickly noticed at the scene. While their presence created concern among some supporters, others said it was necessary to prevent any breakdown of law and order. Rhodes-Vivour later noted that the ADC will formally engage security authorities to clarify the role of the officers at the venue.
As the countdown to 2027 begins, political watchers believe this defection is one of the early signals that opposition parties may be preparing for stronger collaboration. The growing call for coalition politics continues to dominate Nigeria’s political space, especially among parties and groups seeking to break the dominance of ruling structures.
For Rhodes-Vivour, his message was clear: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, collective action, and courage to resist intimidation. The ADC leadership and its new members now face the task of translating this vision into political strength that can make a difference in the years ahead.
