The Lagos State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 elections, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has expressed confidence in his ability to contest and win without relying on the influence of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, or the Obidient movement.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Thursday, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour said his years of grassroots mobilisation and community engagement have prepared him for the upcoming governorship race.
He made the remarks while responding to questions about his campaign strategy following Obi’s reported departure from the ADC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) amid internal legal challenges within the party.
According to him, his political journey has evolved significantly since the 2023 governorship election, stressing that the person he is today is far more experienced and better positioned.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour noted that over the years, he and his team have built strong community structures and deepened their connection with the people, which he believes will strengthen his chances in 2027.
He also highlighted his involvement with residents affected by demolitions in different parts of Lagos, saying those engagements have further shaped his understanding of the people’s struggles and strengthened his vision for the state.
While acknowledging the role Peter Obi played in his 2023 campaign, Rhodes-Vivour maintained that Lagos politics requires a broader coalition that cuts across age groups, ethnic backgrounds, and different social experiences.
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour rose to prominence during the 2023 Lagos governorship election, where he emerged as one of the strongest opposition voices and gained significant support, particularly among young voters and supporters of the Obidient movement led by Peter Obi.
His campaign, which focused on issues such as housing, transportation, and social welfare, positioned him as a major challenger in Lagos politics and expanded his political base across different parts of the state.
Since the 2023 election, Rhodes-Vivour has remained active in community-based advocacy, especially on issues affecting residents, including demolitions and urban displacement, further strengthening his grassroots presence.
With political alignments beginning to shift ahead of the 2027 elections and questions surrounding the influence of Peter Obi and the Obidient movement, Rhodes-Vivour has now moved to reassure supporters that his political structure and connection with the people have grown strong enough to stand independently.
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