Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Lagos State African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate for the 2027 general elections, has declared his readiness to contest independently, without relying on the influence of former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi or the Obidient movement. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Thursday, Rhodes-Vivour emphasized that years of consistent grassroots mobilization have solidified his political foundation and prepared him for the upcoming election. He addressed concerns about his campaign’s viability following Obi’s departure from the ADC to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), citing internal legal disputes within the party as the reason for the split.
Rhodes-Vivour stated that his political profile and organizational structure have significantly evolved since his 2023 governorship bid. “Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of 2023 is not Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of 2026,” he said. “We have been doing the work, we have been building structures in communities, we have entrenched ourselves. We are standing for the people.” His remarks underscore a strategic shift toward community-centric politics, highlighting sustained engagement with residents affected by demolitions across Lagos. This hands-on approach, he noted, has deepened his connection with grassroots stakeholders and reinforced his vision for inclusive governance.
The ADC candidate acknowledged Obi’s role in the 2023 electoral cycle, describing him as a “fantastic candidate” and affirming that there are no personal issues between them. He credited the 2023 campaign with fostering a broad-based coalition that united people across generations, tribes, and diverse experiences. Rhodes-Vivour stressed that Lagos politics demands such inclusivity, and his campaign continues to reflect that principle. He also pointed to the importance of maintaining political integrity and resilience amid party realignments and leadership changes.
Despite the departure of Obi and the Obidient movement, Rhodes-Vivour remains confident in his ability to mobilize support through direct engagement and local outreach. His campaign strategy focuses on building trust through visible actions, particularly in underserved communities. He believes that sustained community work, rather than celebrity endorsements or national party affiliations, will determine electoral success in Lagos. The 2027 governorship race, he insists, will be won by candidates who have consistently delivered on the ground.
As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, Rhodes-Vivour’s message underscores a growing trend toward localized, people-driven politics. His campaign stands as a testament to the power of grassroots mobilization and long-term political investment. The 2027 election may well be defined by candidates who have built authentic connections with voters, and Rhodes-Vivour is positioning himself as one of those leaders.
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