Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2023 Lagos State election, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has declared that he would rather walk away from politics than form an alliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Rhodes-Vivour made this known while responding to speculations about possible political realignments in Lagos ahead of the next electoral cycle. According to him, his political philosophy and values are at complete variance with the Tinubu-led structure, which has dominated Lagos politics for over two decades.
The former candidate explained that his political mission is driven by reform, accountability, and people-centered governance, goals which he believes cannot be achieved under Tinubu’s political camp. He stressed that joining forces with the president or his allies would mean compromising the very principles that brought him into public service.
“If the choice before me is to align with Tinubu or to quit politics entirely, I will choose the latter
without hesitation. My
loyalty is to the people and the ideals I
represent, not to
entrenched interests,”
Rhodes-Vivour stated.
His remarks come at a time when discussions about possible coalitions and mergers are gaining attention, especially with the evolving dynamics of opposition politics in Nigeria.
Political analysts note that Rhodes-Vivour’s firm stance underscores the deep divide between reform-minded politicians and the existing political establishment in Lagos. It also highlights the Labour Party’s intention to position itself as a genuine alternative, rather than an appendage to the ruling order.
While some observers view his position as a bold statement of principle, others believe it could limit his future political opportunities in a state where Tinubu’s influence remains significant.
