Rhodes-Vivour Emerges ADC Governorship Candidate In Lagos

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour has clinched the governorship ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following a decisive victory in the party’s primary election held amid heightened political realignments within the opposition landscape.

Rhodes-Vivour, widely known as GRV, secured 12,948 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Silas, who polled 6,183 votes in a contest that party officials and observers described as peaceful, orderly, and transparent.

His emergence formally positions him as the ADC candidate ahead of the 2027 governorship election, further consolidating his place as one of the leading opposition figures in Lagos politics.

The primary outcome also comes against the backdrop of shifting alliances within the broader opposition, particularly following the exit of Peter Obi from the ADC-aligned political coalition space, a development that has triggered defections and reconfigurations across party lines.

Gbadebo confirmed his victory in a post on his official X handle on Monday.

“Last night we were officially declared victorious in a landslide victory. We stay winning against any odds they throw our way, much less excel sheets,” he wrote.

After the voting process, he was also quoted as telling journalists that the primary victory was not an end but the beginning of a broader political task, calling for unity among party faithful as preparations intensify for the main election.

“The work has only just begun. Together, we will continue to build a movement that represents hope, progress and accountable leadership for our people,” GRV added.

Rhodes-Vivour’s emergence follows weeks of speculation about his political direction after realignments within opposition ranks.

However, he had previously dismissed suggestions that he would leave the ADC, reaffirming his commitment to the party in a statement that underscored internal stability amid uncertainty.

In an earlier position paper titled “Manifest Destiny: The House That God Built,” issued on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, he framed his decision as one rooted in conviction rather than political convenience.

“We are living through a defining moment. Our politics is turbulent, the unity of the opposition is being tested, and, for some, it has become necessary to forge different paths,” he said. “To those who have made the difficult decision to move on to a new platform, I offer my genuine respect and best wishes.”

He further clarified his political stance amid growing speculation at the time, insisting on continuity within the ADC structure.

“I want to make it clear that I am staying in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). It is the platform we have built, the ground we have fought on, and the vehicle that can take us to victory,” he stated.

Rhodes-Vivour rose to prominence during the 2023 governorship election in Lagos under the Labour Party.

His latest victory now sets the stage for another major electoral contest as political dynamics continue to shift ahead of the governorship poll.