The Lagos State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has explained that speaking fluent Yoruba is not a requirement for him to protect Lagos’ indigenous culture if elected governor.
He made the clarification in a video shared on Monday after facing reactions to his answer on Yoruba culture and language at The Platform’s October 1 event.
Rhodes-Vivour said he has never rejected Lagos’ Yoruba identity and recognised the role of indigenous groups, including the Aworis and Eguns, in the city’s development.
He explained that his main problem with Yoruba is fluency. According to him, he often thinks in English before putting his thoughts into other languages. He added that he is working to improve his Yoruba.
“My business is governance. I don’t have to speak perfect Yoruba to preserve and protect the indigenous culture of Lagos,” he said.
He also defended his “Afonja” meme about President Bola Tinubu, saying it was neither an insult to the Yoruba race nor an attempt to portray Tinubu as representing the entire ethnic group.
Rhodes-Vivour also attacked the Lagos State Government over housing, traffic, flooding, waste management, roads and alleged corruption.
He promised 100,000 affordable homes, rail expansion, flood control and waste reforms that would give local governments a bigger role. He also promised to tackle alleged corruption in waste management and create other opportunities for young people involved in street activities.
