GRV Joins ADC, Blasts APC Over Sealed Lagos Venue, Vows To Resist Intimidation And Strengthen Opposition Ahead 2027

 

The political atmosphere in Lagos State grew more charged on Friday after Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, former Labour Party governorship candidate, confirmed his defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The politician, who contested the 2023 Lagos governorship race, announced that his formal declaration with the ADC coalition would take place on Saturday, despite efforts by security agencies to frustrate the gathering.

Through a post on his official X handle, Rhodes-Vivour condemned what he described as targeted attempts to shut down opposition movements. He wrote that no police intimidation, no closure of meeting spaces, and no harassment would stop the planned event. For him, Lagos must remain a state where the people determine the future, not a territory dictated by powerful groups.

His resolve followed the sudden closure of Lion Field in Alimosho by security operatives. The venue had previously been granted approval for an ADC meeting but was sealed off at the last minute, preventing the coalition from going ahead with preparations. Rhodes-Vivour viewed the action as a deliberate attempt by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to cripple opposition activities and weaken public confidence in alternative parties.

Speaking through a strongly worded statement, he declared that democracy in Lagos was under assault, stressing that the people of the state should never be silenced or excluded from civic participation. He accused the APC of systematically using state institutions to harass political rivals, warning that such tactics would not deter him or his supporters. According to him, Lagos belongs to all its residents, regardless of class, background, or political leaning, and not to a narrow circle of interests.

The development adds to growing tension within the Lagos political space as several reports of interference with ADC activities have surfaced in recent weeks. Party members have alleged being assaulted during smaller gatherings, while others claim state-backed disruptions have hindered outreach programmes across different local government areas. Observers believe these actions reflect the increasing anxiety among ruling party operatives as opposition movements begin to gain wider acceptance.

Rhodes-Vivour’s alignment with the ADC is expected to inject new energy into the coalition. The party has recently moved into the national spotlight after hosting talks with major opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi. Both figures have spoken about forming a united political front capable of challenging President Bola Tinubu and the APC in the 2027 general elections.

For many analysts, Rhodes-Vivour represents a bridge between younger voters, who played a critical role during the 2023 elections, and the larger coalition of opposition forces. His fiery criticism of governance in Lagos has resonated with urban communities, civil society groups, and a segment of the electorate that believes the city needs a more inclusive vision. His decision to leave the Labour Party has been viewed as part of a broader strategy to consolidate alliances under the ADC framework, giving the opposition a stronger platform to campaign ahead of 2027.

Beyond his personal declaration, the broader implications of his move lie in how the state handles opposition activities going forward. Critics argue that the sealing of Lion Field reflects a dangerous precedent where administrative power is deployed selectively to block rival voices. Human rights advocates have repeatedly warned that such practices weaken democracy, erode public trust, and could escalate tensions as elections draw nearer.

Rhodes-Vivour, however, insists that no level of intimidation will stop him from engaging with Lagos residents. He promised that the Saturday event would proceed regardless of obstacles and encouraged his supporters to remain steadfast. He described the moment as historic, saying the coalition was determined to create a platform where the people’s voices truly matter.

Political watchers are paying close attention to how the declaration unfolds and what it might signal for the state’s future political dynamics. If the ADC succeeds in strengthening its base in Lagos with the support of Rhodes-Vivour and other key figures, the 2027 elections may deliver a more competitive outcome than previously expected.

As the opposition gathers momentum, questions remain about how the ruling party will respond to increased resistance. Will it continue to rely on restrictive measures, or will it engage opponents on the battleground of ideas and governance records? For Rhodes-Vivour and his allies, the answer will help define the next phase of Nigeria’s democratic journey.

The struggle over access to venues and the freedom to assemble may seem like a tactical battle, but for many Lagos residents, it speaks to deeper issues about who controls the state and how inclusive governance should be. Rhodes-Vivour’s defiance represents both a challenge to the status quo and a call to action for citizens who desire political alternatives.

With the ADC now becoming a rallying point for disaffected politicians and reform-minded citizens, the events unfolding in Lagos could ripple across the national political landscape. Rhodes-Vivour’s entry into the coalition signals that the battle for Nigeria’s future is already underway, and Lagos is emerging as one of its most crucial battlegrounds.