In a televised appearance on Arise Television’s News Day program, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour (GRV) has condemned the recent forceful takeover of the Lagos State House of Assembly by the removed speaker, describing the action as “a dangerous assault on democratic institutions and the rule of law.”
During the interview, Rhodes-Vivour expressed deep concern over what he characterized as escalating political violence and institutional breakdown in Lagos politics.
“What we witnessed at the House of Assembly represents a troubling pattern where might is increasingly valued over right,” Rhodes-Vivour stated on the broadcast. “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.”
Rhodes-Vivour specifically criticized the ruling party in Lagos, accusing it of systematically promoting “thuggery and violence over ideas and decorum” throughout its tenure. He argued that such actions have eroded public trust in governance and weakened democratic values that should preserve the rule of law.
“For too long, Lagos politics has been defined by intimidation rather than inspiration, by coercion rather than conviction,” he said during the Arise Television interview. “The ruling party has consistently demonstrated a willingness to use force to have its way notwithstanding the popular will of the people.
Additionally, Rhodes-Vivour urged Lagosians to take the current crisis as a wake-up call ahead of future elections. He called on voters to prioritize candidates who demonstrate “character, competence, and compassion” regardless of party affiliation.
“The quality of our democracy depends entirely on the quality of individuals we elect to represent us,” Rhodes-Vivour emphasized that. “Lagosians deserve leaders who view public office as a sacred trust rather than a platform for personal aggrandizement.