Former Lagos governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has reaffirmed his commitment to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), distancing himself from ongoing defections.
In a statement released Tuesday, Rhodes-Vivour acknowledged growing divisions within opposition ranks, noting that while some politicians have opted for new platforms, their decisions were driven by difficult political realities.
He expressed respect for those who have left, stating that differing paths do not diminish a shared goal of building a better Nigeria.
Despite the shifting alliances, Rhodes-Vivour made it clear his loyalty remains with the ADC, describing it as a party he has helped build and believes can still deliver electoral success.
Reflecting on his political journey—from KOWA to the Peoples Democratic Party and later the Labour Party—he maintained that his decisions have always been guided by principle rather than personal gain.
The former candidate also stressed that he has never aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress in Lagos, insisting he rejected offers that conflicted with his values.
On electoral integrity, he emphasised the need for strong grassroots structures, noting that defending votes requires organisation from polling units to final collation centres.
Rhodes-Vivour added that efforts to strengthen opposition presence in Lagos have continued since the 2023 elections, with a focus on ward-level mobilisation and coordination across local governments.
His remarks come amid heightened political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with prominent figures such as Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso recently aligning with new coalition platforms.
Rhodes-Vivour, who ran a youth-driven campaign in 2023, lost the Lagos governorship race to incumbent Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the APC.
