Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour Announces Mother's Passing
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate for Lagos State, has announced the death of his mother, Nkechi Stella Rhodes-Vivour. In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, July 13, he described her as the "epitome of love." The announcement was signed by Olawale Rhodes-Vivour on behalf of the family.
The family expressed gratitude for her life, stating: "With sadness in our hearts and gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the call to glory of Nkechi Stella Rhodes-Vivour (née Waboso)." They remembered her as a "loving wife, devoted mother and grandmother" and added: "She will be sorely missed. May her beautiful soul rest in perfect peace." Funeral arrangements will be communicated at a later date.
Family Tribute Highlights Her Warmth
A memorial tribute released alongside the announcement painted a picture of a woman whose warmth and generosity defined her life. The tribute read: "She loved fiercely and gave endlessly. In her arms we found home; in her smile, we found peace. A wife who cherished, a mother who nurtured, her love was our shelter, and it remains, unshaken, in every heart she held." The family concluded: "Though she is gone from our sight, she is never gone from our hearts."
Public Recognition During 2023 Elections
Nkechi Rhodes-Vivour gained public recognition during the 2023 Lagos State governorship election, when her son ran as the Labour Party (LP) candidate. On election day, a widely circulated video clip showed her speaking out against what she described as open vote-buying at her polling unit. In the recording, she expressed frustration that security personnel appeared indifferent as voters allegedly displayed thumb-printed ballot papers to party agents before collecting payment.
Rhodes-Vivour's Political Journey
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, who lost the 2023 governorship contest, has since secured the ADC ticket and is positioning himself for another bid in the 2027 elections. He previously appealed to supporters of the Obidient Movement to be patient with his political direction amid pressure to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), defending his decision to remain in the ADC despite defections of key opposition figures into a new coalition.
