ADC Stands Firm on Convention Date Amid Venue Dispute
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) expressed its intent to proceed with its national convention in Abuja as planned, despite alleged interference from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. The party accuses these officials of attempting to block the use of private venues for the convention.
ADC officials have claimed that the FCDA is collaborating with Minister Wike to undermine a scheduled political rally, dubbing the situation as an instance of “creeping tyranny.” According to ADC’s national communications director, Bolaji Abdullahi, there are growing concerns about the pressure being placed on the management of the Rainbow Events Center, which is set to host the gathering.
Abdullahi revealed that venue proprietors were allegedly warned by FCDA representatives that allowing ADC to use their facilities could lead to the revocation of their operating licenses. This comes despite the party having made advance payments and secured arrangements to use the venue.
“After fulfilling all necessary financial obligations and preparing for today’s event, we were informed by the owners of Rainbow Event Center that they are facing undue pressure from the FCDA and the FCT Minister to rescind our booking,” Abdullahi stated. He emphasized that the ADC will not be swayed by this intimidation, as it has binding agreements with the venue owners.
In response to the ongoing dispute, ADC has reiterated its commitment to hold the convention as planned, asserting that its rise is a reflection of Nigeria’s broader political aspirations. The party’s leader, Kola Olorogubondiyan, has actively engaged in public discourse, countering Wike’s claims that his office had not received an official request for the use of Eagle Square or other public venues.
Olorogubondiyan stated during a live television appearance that the ADC possesses documented evidence of its interactions with the minister’s office regarding venue access, asserting, “It is perplexing to hear the minister deny knowledge of our application. We submitted our requests, and some private venue owners have declined to work with us due to pressure from authorities.”
The controversy surrounding the party’s access to Eagle Square—a traditionally significant venue for major political events—has highlighted tensions between the ADC and the FCT authorities. Despite the challenges, Olorogubondiyan emphasized that the ADC’s convention will take place and asserted a determination to ensure visibility in Abuja, regardless of the obstacles faced.
As of now, official statements from the FCDA or the Office of the FCT Minister have not addressed the allegations concerning the Rainbow Event Center, leaving the situation in a state of uncertainty as the ADC prepares for its significant event.
