The planned national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has hit a major setback after the proprietor of Rainbow Event Centre withdrew permission for the party to use the facility.
The development was disclosed on Monday night by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, via his X account.
According to Abdullahi, the venue owner cited alleged pressure from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as the reason for the withdrawal.
“After paying all the fees required, setting up for our convention tomorrow, the owner of Rainbow Event Centre has just informed us that he has come under pressure from the FCDA and Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, that if he allows the ADC the use of his facilities, his licence will be revoked,” Abdullahi said.
Despite the setback, he insisted that the party would go ahead with its convention as planned.
“But we have already signed the contract with him. We will hold our convention tomorrow as planned at the Rainbow event centre. We will not bow to this creeping tyranny. And definitely not to this petty tyrant. ADC is rising, Nigeria is rising,” he added.
Earlier, the ADC had announced the venue after authorities declined its request to use major public facilities such as Eagle Square and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome.
However, Wike denied claims that the party applied to use Eagle Square, stating that no such request was received. He also clarified that the stadium is under the control of the National Sports Commission, not the FCT Administration.
The situation unfolds amid an ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC, following the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of the faction led by David Mark based on a Court of Appeal ruling.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of Nigeria is expected to hear an appeal filed by Mark seeking to halt the execution of the judgment.
The unfolding developments add further uncertainty to the party’s convention plans, raising questions about logistics, legality, and internal cohesion as the ADC prepares for a crucial gathering ahead of the 2027 elections.
What you should know
The ADC’s convention crisis highlights growing tensions between political parties and regulatory authorities in Nigeria.
The sudden withdrawal of the venue raises concerns about political interference and freedom of association. Combined with the party’s internal leadership dispute and INEC’s stance, the situation presents a complex challenge for the ADC.
The outcome of the Supreme Court ruling and how the party navigates its convention logistics will play a key role in determining its stability and readiness for future elections.
