Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Lagos State African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, has issued a direct challenge to the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging the party not to rely on violence if it truly believes it is delivering for Nigerians. Speaking during an interview on News Central Television, Rhodes-Vivour criticized the APC’s long-standing dominance in Lagos, saying it is now under growing public scrutiny. He argued that if the APC genuinely believes it has been effective in governance, it would not resort to intimidation, thugs, or violent tactics to maintain power.
Rhodes-Vivour pointed to the rising insecurity across Nigeria, particularly in the Southwest, as evidence of the federal government’s failure. He criticized President Bola Tinubu for what he described as “callous remarks” regarding the security situation, noting that such comments reflect poorly on the APC’s leadership and its supporters in Lagos. He emphasized that the people of Lagos who back the APC are part of a broader support structure that sustains what he called a “mafia-type cartel” within the party.
According to Rhodes-Vivour, this cartel has been systematically looting the state’s resources and undermining public trust. He accused the APC of engaging in unprecedented levels of corruption and mismanagement, which have left Lagosians disillusioned and frustrated. He stressed that the current political environment in Lagos is no longer sustainable, especially as citizens demand accountability and transparency from their leaders.
The ADC candidate also highlighted the growing dissatisfaction among Lagos residents who feel neglected by the APC-led government. He noted that the party’s reliance on violence and intimidation during elections and political campaigns is a clear sign of weakness, not strength. Rhodes-Vivour insisted that true governance should be measured by service delivery, not by the ability to suppress opposition.
He further stated that the people of Lagos are increasingly aware of the APC’s actions and are no longer willing to accept the status quo. He called on Nigerians to demand better leadership and to reject political violence as a tool for power. Rhodes-Vivour’s remarks come at a time when political tensions in Lagos are high ahead of upcoming elections, and his challenge to the APC is likely to intensify the campaign discourse.
As the 2023 governorship election approaches, Rhodes-Vivour’s message underscores a growing demand for change in Lagos politics. His call for peaceful, accountable governance may resonate with voters seeking alternatives to the APC’s current model. The political landscape in Lagos is shifting, and the coming months will reveal whether the APC can maintain its grip or if a new era of leadership is on the horizon.
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