Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour has defected to the ADC, calling for opposition unity to “rescue Nigeria” ahead of the 2027 elections.
LAGOS – Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in Lagos during the 2023 elections, on Saturday formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), positioning the party as part of a wider coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking after his defection, Rhodes-Vivour criticised the police sealing of the ADC’s meeting venue, insisting that political gatherings are constitutionally protected. He said his decision was driven by the need to unify the opposition in order to challenge the ruling establishment.
“This coalition is meant to rescue Nigeria. We cannot afford to divide the opposition ahead of 2027. We must come together to deliver Nigeria from those who hold power through violence and intimidation,” Rhodes-Vivour declared.
ADC Chairman in Lagos, George Ashiru, welcomed him, describing the defection as “a movement, not just a political step.” Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, represented at the event, also lauded the ADC as a people-driven platform capable of mobilising for change.
The move signals fresh political realignments as opposition figures seek broader alliances in preparation for the next electoral cycle.