The planned national convention of the African Democratic Congress has encountered a major setback after the proprietor of Rainbow Event Centre withdrew permission for the party to use the facility.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, disclosed the development on Monday night via his X account. He revealed that the decision came after alleged pressure from the Federal Capital Development Authority and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
According to Abdullahi, the venue owner claimed that allowing the ADC to proceed with its convention at the facility could result in the revocation of his operating licence. Despite the party having fulfilled all financial obligations and signed a contract, the sudden withdrawal has thrown preparations into uncertainty.
Abdullahi, however, insisted that the convention would go on as planned at the same venue, stressing that the party would not yield to what he described as intimidation. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to moving forward with its activities regardless of external pressures.
Earlier, the ADC had secured the venue after being unable to access other prominent locations in Abuja, including the Eagle Square and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome. The party had described the event centre as suitable due to its accessibility for delegates nationwide.
Meanwhile, Wike has denied claims that the party formally applied to use Eagle Square, noting that no such request was received. He also clarified that the stadium falls under the control of the National Sports Commission, not the FCT Administration.
The development comes amid an ongoing leadership crisis within the ADC, following a decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission to withdraw recognition of a faction led by David Mark based on a Court of Appeal ruling. The Supreme Court of Nigeria is expected to hear an appeal on the matter.
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