The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has emphasized that integrity is a key quality that distinguishes him from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 governorship election. During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Rhodes-Vivour outlined his vision for Lagos and criticized what he described as poor governance and questionable budget practices in the state. He stated that his primary objective is to improve the quality of life of Lagos residents, rather than treating government as a business venture.
Rhodes-Vivour accused the Lagos government of inflating budget figures, citing examples of projects and items that he claimed were allegedly priced above their actual costs. He denied padding budgets, stating that he is not a thief. The ADC candidate also referred to a previously reported controversy over the cost of an air freshener included in a Lagos State budget, saying that the explanation that it was a typographical error did not address broader concerns about public spending.
The ADC candidate emphasized that his approach to governance would focus on accountability and using public resources to improve the lives of residents. He dismissed questions about his ability to speak Yoruba and his family background, saying such issues should not distract from the problems confronting Lagos. Rhodes-Vivour argued that debates over his heritage or language should not take attention away from issues such as traffic and other challenges affecting residents.
Rhodes-Vivour expressed confidence in his chances in the 2027 election, stating that he had remained consistent in his ideas about how Lagos should be governed. He contested the 2023 Lagos governorship election on the platform of the Labour Party, finishing second with 312,329 votes behind Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was declared the winner with 762,134 votes. Rhodes-Vivour rejected the 2023 result, alleging that voters were intimidated and suppressed during the election.
The ADC officially listed Rhodes-Vivour as its Lagos governorship candidate for the 2027 election, with Babatunde Gbadamosi as his running mate. Rhodes-Vivour stated that his political team was better prepared for the 2027 contest and would not be intimidated. He emphasized that his vision is to make an impact and enhance the quality of life of Lagosians, rather than running a business or company.
Rhodes-Vivour's campaign focuses on addressing the issues that affect many Lagosians, such as traffic and other challenges. He argued that language, culture, and family background are not relevant to the problems confronting Lagos residents. The ADC candidate emphasized that he is committed to improving the lives of Lagosians and that his integrity sets him apart from the APC.
The 2027 governorship election in Lagos State is expected to be a competitive contest, with Rhodes-Vivour and other candidates vying for the top spot. Rhodes-Vivour's commitment to accountability and transparency in governance could potentially resonate with voters. The election is scheduled to take place in 2027, and the candidates are expected to intensify their campaigns in the coming months.
Key points
- Rhodes-Vivour emphasizes integrity as a key quality that distinguishes him from the APC in Lagos.
- The ADC candidate criticizes the Lagos government's budget practices and governance.
- Rhodes-Vivour expresses confidence in his chances in the 2027 election.
