Lagos governorship candidate Rhodes-Vivour mourns mother

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, who is the governorship candidate for the African Democratic Congress in Lagos State, has lost his mother, Nkechi Rhodes-Vivour (née Waboso).

Mr Rhodes-Vivour is aiming to be the governor of Lagos in the 2027 election after winning the ADC ticket. He had previously run for the governorship in 2023 under the Labour Party.

On Monday, he shared the sad news on his X account. The announcement said, “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).” This message was signed by Olawale Rhodes-Vivour on behalf of the family and posted on social media by the ADC candidate.

The announcement called the deceased a “loving wife, devoted mother and grandmother” and the “epitome of love.” It also said, “She will be sorely missed. May her beautiful soul rest in perfect peace.”

The family mentioned that details about the funeral will be shared soon. In a heartfelt tribute that came with the announcement, they described Mrs Rhodes-Vivour as a beloved wife and gentle spirit. Her love and kindness made a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

“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.

“Though she is gone from our sight, she is never gone from our hearts,” the tribute said.

Mrs Rhodes-Vivour drew public attention during the 2023 governorship election. She openly supported her son in his campaign.

On election day, a video surfaced online showing her criticizing vote-buying at her polling unit. In the video, she expressed her frustration that security agencies were not doing anything while voters showed their marked ballots to political party agents to get paid.