Former Labour Party governorship candidate in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has strongly criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the ruling party of fostering corruption and rewarding impunity.
Speaking during an interview with Nigeria Info FM, Rhodes-Vivour described the APC as a party that attracts individuals with questionable character and a history of criminal activities. He further alleged that the party has created a system where corruption and loyalty to political cabals take precedence over competence and service to the people.
“It is visible even to the blind that APC is a party that rewards corruption, thuggery, and impunity,” he said. “It’s no surprise they attract the worst of us: fake lawyers, and leaders with records of crime, without certificates. They do not campaign on ideas or govern with any; instead, they rely on bigotry, violence, and rigging to force their way into office.”
The Labour Party chieftain claimed that the recent political events within the Lagos State House of Assembly highlight how cabals manipulate the state’s politics to serve their interests rather than those of the citizens.
Rhodes-Vivour accused APC leaders in Lagos of prioritizing the interests of political cabals over the welfare of the people. He argued that elected officials under APC are often selected based on their willingness to follow the dictates of influential party figures rather than their ability to lead effectively or serve the broader population.
“The people that are rewarded are the ones who bend to the will of the cabals. These cabals support only those who will do their bidding, not individuals who prioritize the people’s interests,” he stated.
He emphasized that a governor is not just elected to serve party members but is responsible for the entire population, noting that Lagos, with over 20 million residents, deserves accountable leadership.
“A governor is not just a governor for the people in APC; they’re a governor for all Lagosians. They carry the destinies of over 20 million souls. Leadership demands accountability to the people, not to a select few who manipulate the system for their gain,” Rhodes-Vivour explained.
Rhodes-Vivour expressed concern that the culture of impunity and lack of accountability within the APC undermines governance and development. He highlighted that leaders who do not believe they owe their mandate to the electorate often prioritize the interests of those who helped them secure power.
“When leaders do not believe that the people put them in office, they first answer to the cabals who did. Unfortunately, this comes at the expense of the public good. It is the commonwealth of the people—their taxes—that is being misused to serve a few,” he added.
The Labour Party chieftain called on Nigerians to demand more from their leaders and push for reforms that prioritize competence, character, and empathy in governance.
