The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded to the defection of Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The APC described the move as an instance of political opportunism, citing Rhodes-Vivour’s history of switching parties.

Rhodes-Vivour formally joined the ADC on Saturday, stating that his decision was driven by the need to strengthen a broad coalition of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. The ADC has been adopted as a platform for an opposition coalition seeking to challenge the APC’s dominance, bringing together individuals dissatisfied with both the ruling party and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

At his declaration, Rhodes-Vivour emphasized the importance of unity among opposition forces, stating that a collective effort is necessary to “rescue Nigeria.” He expressed his commitment to building unity and his desire for the party to deliver good governance to Nigerians. Rhodes-Vivour also stressed that the opposition must not enter the 2027 elections divided, advocating for a united and robust coalition.

In response, the APC’s spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, dismissed Rhodes-Vivour’s defection as inconsequential, describing it as a “pattern of political nomadism.” Oladejo drew comparisons between Rhodes-Vivour’s actions and those of his mentor, Peter Obi, who has also switched parties in the past. The APC spokesperson argued that Rhodes-Vivour poses no electoral threat to the ruling party, confident that the APC will defeat any candidate presented by the opposition coalition in 2027.

The ADC’s adoption as a platform for an opposition coalition is significant, as it reflects the ongoing efforts to challenge the APC’s dominance in Nigerian politics. The 2027 general elections are expected to be highly contested, with various parties and coalitions vying for power. The defection of prominent figures like Rhodes-Vivour may contribute to the evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, as opposition parties seek to present a unified front against the ruling party.