Tension erupted on Saturday during the official defection of Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Lagos, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The event, held in Alimosho, was marred by violence allegedly instigated by suspected loyalists of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Armed thugs, reportedly backed by security operatives, stormed the second venue secured for the ceremony, dispersing supporters and disrupting proceedings. Earlier in the day, access to the original venue was blocked by police officers and armed groups despite full payment having been made. Rhodes-Vivour was told by security personnel that the directive came “from above” and was advised to take up the matter with the state Commissioner of Police.
Despite the disruption, Rhodes-Vivour formally declared his move to the ADC, describing the party as a platform for building a broad coalition to challenge the ruling establishment ahead of the 2027 elections.
“We are not holding a political rally but a political meeting, which we have constitutional rights to do,” Rhodes-Vivour said. “We must come together to form a strong coalition that can deliver Nigeria from those who hold power through thuggery, violence, and intimidation.”
He stressed that without unity among opposition forces, governance would remain ineffective and Nigerians would continue to be silenced.
ADC Welcomes Rhodes-Vivour
Lagos ADC Chairman, George Ashiru, praised the defection as a milestone, noting that Rhodes-Vivour represents a growing movement that has challenged Lagos’ political status quo.
“We are not affirming one man; we are affirming a movement. The coalition did not start three months ago it began two years ago, and today we are celebrating it,” Ashiru said.
He highlighted ADC’s vision of a “global Lagos” where opportunities exist for all residents and their children.
Atiku Commends Coalition Efforts
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, represented at the event by Professor Ola Olateju, applauded the coalition-building drive, describing ADC as more than a political party.
“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,” he noted.
The event concluded with party leaders hailing Rhodes-Vivour’s entry as “one of the most important affirmation programmes” in strengthening opposition unity ahead of the 2027 polls.
