"determination to perpetuate and add to the oppression introduced during Solomon's reign was in direct conflict with God's plan for Israel, and gave the people ample occasion to doubt the sincerity of their motives. In this unwise and unfeeling attempt to exercise power, the king and his chosen counselors revealed the pride of position and authority. PK 90.1"
"Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall."
The EGW passage describes Rehoboam's pride and abuse of power, which aligns with the warning against pride in Proverbs 16:18.