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 engaged a Yoruba teacher and developed his ability to speak the language. He emphasized that culture and language are important, but his primary concern is addressing the challenges faced by Lagos residents.

Rhodes-Vivour, who is of mixed Yoruba and Igbo heritage, previously acknowledged during a 2023 interview that he understood and could speak Yoruba but 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. During the interview, Rhodes-Vivour also responded in Yoruba to a presenter's greeting, saying "Mo ki gbogbo yin," which means "I greet all of you."

The challenges confronting Lagos, including flooding, housing crisis, and traffic congestion, affect residents regardless of their ethnic backgrounds. Rhodes-Vivour aims to ensure that Lagos is free from the smell of these problems, as he believes the issues connect all people in the state. This comes amid controversy over Rhodes-Vivour's Yoruba fluency during the 2023 Lagos governorship election, where his mixed heritage and language abilities sparked political debate.