ADC Lagos Welcomes Rhodes- Vivour, Supporters To Party Family
•By Admin
LAGOS – THE African Democratic Congress (ADC), Lagos State Chapter, has officially welcomed to its fold, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the former gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, along with his supporters.
According to a press release issued by the Director of Communications for the Lagos State ADC, Mabel Oboh, it has been officially confirmed this significant event occurred amid controversy, as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) allegedly attempted to disrupt the official venue for the ceremony at Alimosho Local Government Area and other locations.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Oboh reported that the Lagos state chairman of ADC, George Ashiru, warmly welcome and congratulated Rhodes-Vivour and his followers for their new allegiance to the ADC.
In his speech, Ashiru emphasised that this move marks a pivotal strengthening of the opposition coalition in preparation for the 2027 general elections, highlighting the strategic importance of uniting opposition forces.
Ashiru described Rhodes-Vivour’s defection as a “historic affirmation” of a coalition that has been forming since the last election cycle.
According to him, “Today, we are witnessing one of the most significant affirmation events where our coalition partners from a key bloc within the Labour Party are joining this remarkable family of Nigerians, the African Democratic Congress.”
“We are not merely affirming an individual, we are affirming a movement. Every movement, however, requires a leader, and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour embodies the leadership of a movement that made a substantial impact on Lagos during the last election.”
Highlighting the coalition’s foundation laid during the 2023 elections, Ashiru expressed his commitment to creating a united front against the overwhelming influence of the APC.
He articulated the importance of this coalition, stating that it is essential for the opposition to remain unified moving into future elections.
Rhodes-Vivour, brimming with excitement during his declaration, articulated his contentment with joining the ADC family. He stated, “I am elated to be part of this collective.
“I eagerly anticipate the collaborative governance and the positive changes this party can introduce to our nation. My heartfelt prayer is that our leaders and the party’s framework are granted the wisdom to collectively forge a new direction for our beloved country.”
The Lagos ADC Director of Communications further highlighted that this development aligns with the ADC’s strategy of forming a coalition with various opposition parties aimed at unseating the APC in the upcoming 2027 elections.
“The party had officially formed this coalition in July, seeking to attract influential figures to establish a robust third force in Nigerian politics” she said.
The Lagos State chairman, Ashiru, however called for solidarity among opposition members, urging them to coalesce for the 2027 elections.
“This coalition is fundamentally aimed at rescuing Nigeria. Since the conclusion of the 2023 elections, I have stressed that we cannot afford to fragment our efforts as the opposition. We must unite through a solid coalition that stands a chance of delivering meaningful change in 2027.”
Also speaking, a representative of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Professor Ola Olateju, reinforced the significance of self-belief among party members, urging them to recognise their potential to offer a viable alternative for Nigerians.
“We must not underestimate our capabilities. Each individual here has the potential to achieve greatness. ADC represents not only a political party but also a movement for the people — a transformative journey toward rescuing Nigeria.”
Dr Muhammed Ogidi, Lagos State Organising Secretary, in his vote of thanks, thanked the attendees at the ceremony for their courage in the face of intimidation.
Elder Igbinoba Festus, the ADC National Chief Whip, who also attended the event, warmly welcomed Rhodes-Vivour, reaffirming the ADC’s position as a credible alternative in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Oboh concluded by acknowledging the success of the declaration event, despite initial challenges. She noted that many dignitaries extended their felicitations to the ADC on the momentous occasion.
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