By Olanrewaju Adesanya
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s governorship flag bearer in the 2023 gubernatorial election has been described as a reflection of the late Chief Moshood Abiola’s political ideology.
In a statement signed by Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour’s publicity secretary Comrade Ireti Adewole, he said that Gbadebo personifies the legacy of liberation, courage and people-driven leadership like MKO.
“It is noteworthy to say both Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour and late Chief Moshood Abiola share a burning passion for liberation.
“One at the national level and the other at the state level. While Abiola’s dream was to liberate Nigeria from poverty, injustice, and misrule with his iconic “Hope ’93” campaign.
“ Gbadebo steps into the political scene with the same spirit, aiming to free Lagos from the grip of political godfatherism, institutionalized oppression, and systemic inequality.
“Their aspirations are deeply rooted in the desire to return power to the people and to create a fairer, more inclusive society.
“Neither Gbadebo nor Abiola entered politics through government appointments or the patronage of the political elite.
“They emerged as self-made leaders who earned their followership through integrity, vision, and grassroots connection.
“Abiola rose from the private sector as a successful businessman and philanthropist, while Gbadebo has remained untainted by political favoritism, choosing instead to stand with the people and not the powers that be.
According Comrade Adewole, “This independent political trajectory sets them apart as truly people’s candidates.
“Just like Abiola denounced the elite-driven politics of his time, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour is taking a bold stance against godfatherism and the manipulation of the masses through vote-buying.
“He is vocal about ending the culture of using poverty as a political tool, where people are given money in exchange for their future.
“Gbadebo’s campaign is one of political reawakening educating the electorate on the power of their vote and standing against the forces that have held Lagos hostage for decades “Gbadebo’s message of “Hope ” is not accidental, it is a deliberate continuation of the dream that MKO Abiola died for.
Abiola symbolized hope for a new Nigeria; Gbadebo symbolizes hope for a new Lagos. Both men are champions of equity, unity, and transformation.
“Gbadebo is determined to correct the long-s governance tanding narrative of marginalization in Lagos Politics, and like Abiola, he is ready to stake his all to uplift the ordinary people and restore dignity to governance. Together, let’s make Lagos proud.”
