The Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Lagos, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress. The announcement was made on Saturday in the Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos. However, the event was almost disrupted by an alleged attempt by suspected political thugs to cause chaos.
Police officers were present at the venue, which caused unease among attendees. Rhodes-Vivour addressed the crowd after receiving the ADC flag, stating that the gathering was a constitutional political meeting, not a campaign rally. He expressed his intention to seek clarification from the Lagos State Commissioner of Police regarding the deployment of officers, questioning whether their purpose was to protect the event or intimidate participants.
Rhodes-Vivour explained that his decision to join the ADC was driven by the need for opposition forces to collaborate and strengthen their position. He emphasized that a unified opposition is essential to challenge those who use violence and intimidation to maintain power. The former LP candidate warned that if the political landscape continues to be dominated by such tactics, governance will remain ineffective, and citizens will be denied a voice.
Rhodes-Vivour expressed optimism about his new political affiliation, stating that he is happy to join the ADC family. He prayed that the party’s leaders would be granted the wisdom and courage to lead the country towards a better future through unity and purposeful leadership. The defection is seen as a significant development in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in the context of the 2023 elections.
The African Democratic Congress has been gaining prominence as a platform for opposition forces to unite and challenge the dominant parties. Rhodes-Vivour’s decision to join the party is likely to boost its profile and strengthen its position in the political arena. As Nigeria prepares for future elections, the ADC’s growing influence and the unity of opposition forces are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s political trajectory.
