The politics of Lagos have been characterized by intimidation rather than inspiration, by coercion rather than conviction.
Mr. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the candidate for governorship represented by the Labour Party, LP, in the election for Lagos 2023, has expressed his disapproval of the forcible takeover of the Lagos State House of Assembly, describing it as an assault on democratic institutions and the rule of law.
In response to the new development, Rhodes-Vivour voiced his alarm, stating that a potentially harmful precedent was being established.
He stated, “What we witnessed at the House of Assembly represents a troubling pattern where might is increasingly valued over right. This forceful seizure of the legislative chambers undermines the very foundations of our democracy and sends a disturbing message about how power is wielded in our state.”
The party that is currently in power in Lagos was criticized by him, and he accused it of systematically encouraging thuggery and violence above ideas.
He stated that activities of this nature have damaged democratic norms that ought to uphold the rule of law and have eroded public trust in the governance in which the government operates.
Gbadebo also said that for far too long, the politics of Lagos have been characterized by intimidation rather than inspiration, by coercion rather than conviction.
The party that is currently in power has repeatedly shown that it is willing to resort to the use of force in order to get what it wants, regardless of the feelings of the people.
He advised the people of Lagos to use the current issue as a wake-up call in preparation for future elections, stating that voters should give preference to candidates who display character, competence, and compassion regardless of their alignment with a particular political party.
It was his assertion that the quality of our democracy is totally dependent on the quality of the people that we choose to represent us in government. Leaders who see public service as a sacred trust rather than a platform for personal aggrandizement are what the people of Lagos deserve.
“For too long, Lagos politics has been defined by intimidation rather than inspiration, by coercion rather than conviction.
“The ruling party has consistently demonstrated a willingness to use force to have its way notwithstanding the popular will of the people.
“The quality of our democracy depends entirely on the quality of individuals we elect to represent us. Lagosian deserve leaders who view public office as a sacred trust rather than a platform for personal aggrandizement,” Gbadebo stated.