Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour Hints at 2027 Lagos Governorship Bid, Calls for Opposition Unity
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party (LP) candidate in the 2023 Lagos State governorship election, has hinted at the possibility of running again in the 2027 polls. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Rhodes-Vivour reaffirmed his determination to achieve his political ambition of becoming the Governor of Lagos State.
Determined to Stay in the Race
Gists9ja reports that Rhodes-Vivour expressed his unwavering commitment to contesting in the future, stating, “By God’s grace, yes,” when asked if he planned to participate in the 2027 governorship race. He emphasized that his focus remains on strengthening his political foundation, whether with the Labour Party or potentially through another platform.
However, Rhodes-Vivour underscored the need for opposition parties in Nigeria to collaborate if they hope to challenge the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). “If all parties do not come together, it is going to be a waste of time running in 2027 because there is a full state capture happening in this country now,” he cautioned.
Reflecting on the 2023 Election
In the 2023 Lagos gubernatorial election, Rhodes-Vivour finished as the runner-up, securing 312,329 votes. Incumbent Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the APC won re-election with 762,134 votes. Despite the loss, Rhodes-Vivour’s performance was notable, given the relatively new status of the Labour Party in Lagos politics.
He attributed his strong showing to a growing desire for change among Lagosians and believes that unity among opposition parties can further amplify this momentum.
Opposition Unity as a Strategy
Rhodes-Vivour stressed the importance of building a united front against what he described as “state capture.” He believes a fragmented opposition would struggle to make significant inroads against the entrenched political machinery of the APC in Lagos State.
“For now, my job is to ensure that I have a strong party – Labour Party,” he added, highlighting the importance of consolidating the party’s structure and influence in preparation for future elections.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Rhodes-Vivour’s comments signal a long-term commitment to Lagos politics and his ambition to reshape the governance of the state. While he remains focused on strengthening the Labour Party, his openness to other platforms suggests a pragmatic approach to achieving his goals.
As 2027 approaches, the call for opposition unity and strategic planning will likely remain central to his campaign. Whether as a Labour Party candidate or under a different political banner, Rhodes-Vivour’s next move will be closely watched by supporters and critics alike.
