Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Lagos State governorship candidate, has expressed his support for Atiku Abubakar as the party's presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections. In an interview with BBC Igbo, Rhodes-Vivour clarified that he has no disagreement with former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, despite their different political affiliations. He emphasized that his primary focus is on Lagos State and that his commitment to the ADC and Atiku Abubakar remains unwavering.
Rhodes-Vivour's statement comes amid speculations of a rift between him and Peter Obi, who was previously affiliated with the Labour Party. However, Rhodes-Vivour insisted that his political relationship with Obi would not be affected by developments at the national level. He noted that his immediate priority is securing the interests of Lagos State and that he would make decisions based on what is best for the state.
The ADC candidate recalled that he had previously been in the same political camp as both Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi during the 2027 elections. He mentioned that Atiku was the presidential candidate, while Obi was his vice president during his first Senate bid. Rhodes-Vivour noted that the political configuration later changed, with Atiku and Obi contesting the presidency separately in the following election.
Rhodes-Vivour reiterated that his current political affiliation with the ADC means that Atiku Abubakar remains his presidential candidate. He emphasized that he would work towards advancing the interests of the party and urged Nigerians to vote for candidates based on their convictions. Additionally, he called for an electoral process that ensures citizens' choices are respected.
The ADC candidate also rejected the description of Lagos as a "no-man's land," insisting that the state has never been one. He questioned the basis for this assertion, particularly regarding land ownership and property transactions in the state. Rhodes-Vivour described the assertion as offensive, saying it is not merely an insult to him but also to his ancestry.
Rhodes-Vivour's comments on Lagos State's land ownership were in response to claims that the state is a "no-man's land." He asked who people are buying land from if the state is indeed a "no-man's land." The ADC candidate emphasized that Lagos has a well-established system of land ownership and property transactions.
In conclusion, Rhodes-Vivour's endorsement of Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 presidential election has clarified his stance on the matter. He has also assured that his relationship with Peter Obi remains intact, despite their different political affiliations. Rhodes-Vivour's focus on Lagos State and his commitment to the ADC and Atiku Abubakar remain unwavering.
Key points
- - Rhodes-Vivour backs Atiku Abubakar for 2027 presidential election - No rift with Peter Obi despite different political affiliations - Lagos State is not a "no-man's land," says Rhodes-Vivour
