Rhodes-Vivour leaves Labour Party, joins ADC

Former Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2023 Lagos State election, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has officially defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

He made the declaration on Saturday at an event in Lagos, aligning with a coalition of opposition parties under the ADC platform working to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections. The coalition, launched in July, is rallying prominent figures to build a strong third force.

Speaking at the event, Rhodes-Vivour described his move as a step toward a broader coalition.

“I am happy to become part of this family. I look forward to the unity and governance this party will bring to Nigerians. My prayer is that God grants our leaders and the party the wisdom to chart a new path for our beloved country,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of opposition unity ahead of 2027.

“This coalition is designed to rescue Nigeria. Since after the 2023 elections, I have maintained that we cannot afford a divided opposition. We must stand together through a robust coalition that can truly challenge for power in 2027,” he added.

Rhodes-Vivour had earlier accused the police of attempting to obstruct the event, originally planned for the Alimosho area. According to his aide, Olalekan Anjolaiya, the organisers had duly notified security operatives, but attendees were denied access on Saturday morning. The programme was later relocated within the same local government.

Confirming his defection despite the disruption, Rhodes-Vivour said, “With this speech, I just want to confirm that I am joining the ADC coalition.”

ADC Lagos chairman, George Ashiru, described the development as a milestone in strengthening the opposition alliance.

“Today, one of the most important affirmation programmes is taking place, with our coalition partners from a key Labour Party bloc joining this great family, the ADC. We are not affirming just one man but a movement — and Rhodes-Vivour represents the leadership of a movement that shook Lagos in the last election,” Ashiru said.

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He explained that the coalition had been nurtured since the 2023 elections and had now crystallized into a united platform to challenge APC’s dominance.

Also present was Professor Ola Olateju, representing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who urged members to believe in their ability to provide Nigerians with a viable alternative.

“ADC is more than a political party; it is a people’s movement, an exodus to rescue Nigeria. Here, there is equal opportunity for everyone, regardless of ethnicity, gender or class,” Olateju noted.