LP slams Rhodes-Vivour over move to ADC, calls defection premature

The Labour Party (LP) has criticised its former Lagos State governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, for defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the decision as hasty and politically unwise.

Rhodes-Vivour, who contested the 2023 Lagos governorship election on the LP platform, formally joined the ADC on Saturday during a declaration ceremony in Alimosho, Lagos. The event, initially disrupted by security operatives, was later relocated and formed part of a coalition drive by opposition parties under the ADC to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

Speaking at the event, Rhodes-Vivour said his move was motivated by the need to build a united opposition. “This coalition is a rescue mission. We cannot afford to divide the opposition ahead of 2027. We must come together through a robust coalition that stands a real chance of delivering this country,” he stated.

But LP dismissed his defection, insisting he should have followed the example of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who has continued to engage opposition parties without abandoning the Labour Party.

In a statement issued by LP’s interim National Publicity Secretary, Tony Akeni, the party said Rhodes-Vivour had “jumped the gun” and demonstrated political inexperience.

“Our party believes a broad coalition of opposition forces is the way forward. Peter Obi is already working on this path without leaving the LP. Rhodes-Vivour should have taken a cue from him instead of hastily defecting,” Akeni said.

He added that while it is widely agreed no single opposition party can defeat the APC in 2027, Rhodes-Vivour’s decision to switch platforms was not the solution.

“By jumping ship, he has shown he still has much to learn in his political journey. Politicians who genuinely wish to serve must learn to hurry slowly. Nevertheless, we wish him well,” Akeni concluded.