Plans by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to hold its national convention in Abuja were thrown into uncertainty after the management of Rainbow Event Centre withdrew its earlier approval for the event, citing alleged pressure from authorities.
The party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, disclosed the development late Monday, revealing that the decision came after the party had fulfilled all financial obligations and concluded arrangements for the convention.
According to him, the proprietor of the facility backed out following alleged threats from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
“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.
“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 said.
Despite the setback, the party insisted it would proceed with the convention as scheduled.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Convention Media and Publicity Sub-committee, Kola Ologbondiyan, had confirmed that the Rainbow Event Centre was secured after authorities declined the party’s requests to use other major public venues in the capital.
However, Minister Wike denied any involvement, stating that the ADC did not formally apply to use the Eagle Square. He also clarified that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome is not under the control of the FCT Administration but the National Sports Commission.
The development adds to the party’s internal and legal challenges, following the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to suspend recognition of its leadership.
INEC had based its action on the March 12 ruling of the Court of Appeal, which affected the leadership structure of the party. The commission subsequently indicated it would engage with a rival faction led by Nafiu Bala.
The crisis has deepened divisions within the opposition party, with both factions laying claim to legitimacy and demanding official recognition.
Meanwhile, the leadership crisis is set to move to the apex court, as the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear an appeal filed by former Senate President, David Mark, seeking to halt the enforcement of the appellate court ruling.
The hearing, slated for the same day as the convention, is expected to shape the immediate future of the party’s leadership and its political standing.
