I’ve learnt Yoruba, can now campaign in language — Rhodes-Vivour

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Lagos State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, has revealed that he has learned Yoruba and can now campaign in the language. Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, Rhodes-Vivour said he had hired a Yoruba teacher and had developed his ability to speak the language. He emphasized the importance of culture and language, but stressed that his primary focus is addressing the challenges faced by Lagos residents.

During the interview, Rhodes-Vivour responded in Yoruba when a presenter greeted him in the language, saying "Mo ki gbogbo yin," which means "I greet all of you." The candidate highlighted the shared issues facing Lagos, including flooding, housing crisis, and traffic congestion, which affect residents regardless of their ethnic backgrounds.

Rhodes-Vivour, whose father is Yoruba and mother is Igbo, acknowledged during the 2023 campaign that while he understood and could speak Yoruba, he was not fluent. He later stated that he had hired a Yoruba teacher and was learning the language, believing it would help him connect with the people.