Rhodes-Vivour Can Now Campaign in Yoruba for Lagos 2027

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Lagos State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, stated that he has learned Yoruba and can now campaign in the language. During an interview on Arise TV, he mentioned engaging a Yoruba teacher to improve his fluency.

Rhodes-Vivour highlighted the importance of culture and language while focusing on addressing the challenges faced by Lagos residents, such as flooding, housing crises, and traffic congestion. He expressed that these issues affect all residents, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds.

His comments come amid previous controversies regarding his Yoruba fluency during the 2023 Lagos governorship election, where his mixed Yoruba and Igbo heritage was debated. Although he acknowledged understanding Yoruba, he had previously stated he was not fluent.

His supporters, including Afenifere and Eko Forum, defended his heritage. In the 2023 election, Rhodes-Vivour, representing the Labour Party, finished third behind Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the All Progressives Congress and Abdul-Azeez Adediran of the Peoples Democratic Party.

He is now seeking the governorship ticket of the ADC for the 2027 election.