The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, , has emerged victorious in the party’s primary election ahead of the 2027 Lagos governorship race after defeating his closest challenger, Silas.
Rhodes-Vivour polled 12,948 votes to secure the ADC ticket, while Silas garnered 6,183 votes in the keenly contested exercise attended by party leaders, stakeholders and supporters from across the state.
Observers described the primary election as peaceful, orderly and transparent, with a significant turnout recorded at various voting centres.
Reacting after his victory was announced, Rhodes-Vivour thanked party members and supporters for their confidence in him, describing the outcome as a victory for the movement.
“I want to sincerely thank every supporter who rallied around this movement and came out en masse to vote. This victory belongs to all of us who believe in a better future,” he stated.
He said the journey toward political transformation in Lagos had only begun, urging party faithful and residents to remain united ahead of the 2027 general election.
“The work has only just begun. Together, we will continue to build a movement that represents hope, progress and accountable leadership for our people,” he added.
In a follow-up statement issued on Monday, Rhodes-Vivour dismissed reports suggesting he had lost the party’s ticket, insisting that electoral outcomes could not be determined through speculation or unofficial projections.
“If only wishes were horses, if only we could sit in our house and write results on Excel sheets to win elections,” he said.
The ADC candidate also responded to critics questioning his political relevance, saying moments of perceived setbacks often attract mockery despite the resilience of genuine political movements.
Quoting comedian , he said: “When a hero stumbles, cowards rejoice. Nothing feels better to a coward than to watch a brave guy fall.”
He maintained that his political structure remained intact and popular among Lagos residents despite the controversy surrounding the primary.
“But sorry to disappoint, that won’t be today. The people of Lagos know the name of their champion,” he said.
Rhodes-Vivour further claimed that celebrations had already commenced within his camp even before the official declaration because the margin of victory was clear.
“Since Friday the landslide victory was so definite that we had started celebrations. Last night we were officially declared victorious in a landslide victory,” he stated.
He concluded by expressing confidence ahead of the 2027 governorship election, saying his movement would continue to triumph despite challenges, while attributing the victory to divine intervention.
“Glory be to God,” he said.
