The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reacted to the defection of Gbadebo Rhodes‑Vivour, the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The APC labeled the move “political opportunism,” pointing to Rhodes‑Vivour’s history of switching parties.
Rhodes‑Vivour formally joined the ADC on Saturday, explaining that his decision was motivated by the need to strengthen a broad coalition of opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. He said the ADC would serve as a platform for an alliance of individuals dissatisfied with both the ruling APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In his declaration, Rhodes‑Vivour stressed the importance of unity among opposition forces, arguing that a collective effort is essential to “rescue Nigeria.” He pledged to build cohesion within the party and to deliver good governance to Nigerians, warning that the opposition must not enter the 2027 elections divided.
In response, APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo dismissed Rhodes‑Vivour’s defection as inconsequential, describing it as a “pattern of political nomadism.” Oladejo compared Rhodes‑Vivour’s actions to those of his mentor, Peter Obi, who has also changed parties in the past, and asserted that Rhodes‑Vivour poses no electoral threat to the ruling party. He expressed confidence that the APC would defeat any candidate presented by the opposition coalition in 2027.
The ADC’s adoption as a platform for an opposition coalition is significant, reflecting 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. Defections by prominent figures like Rhodes‑Vivour may further shape the evolving political landscape as opposition groups seek a unified front against the ruling party.
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