The planned national convention of the African Democratic Congress has encountered fresh uncertainty after the management of the Rainbow Event Centre in Abuja withdrew approval for the party to use the facility.
The development was disclosed late Monday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, who cited alleged external pressure as the reason behind the reversal.
According to Abdullahi, the venue proprietor claimed to have come under pressure from the Federal Capital Development Authority and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warning that his licence could be revoked if the event proceeded.
He maintained that the party had fulfilled all contractual obligations, including payment and preparation for the convention, insisting that the ADC would proceed with its plans despite the setback.
Earlier in the day, the party had announced the Rainbow Event Centre as its convention venue after unsuccessful attempts to secure alternative locations such as Eagle Square and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome.
While the ADC described the venue as accessible and suitable for delegates nationwide, the FCT Minister denied receiving any formal application for the use of Eagle Square. He also clarified that the stadium facility falls under the jurisdiction of the National Sports Commission rather than the FCT Administration.
The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of an internal leadership crisis within the party, following the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to withdraw recognition of the faction led by David Mark in line with a ruling of the Court of Appeal.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of Nigeria is expected to hear an appeal filed by Mark seeking to halt the enforcement of the appellate court’s decision as the party presses ahead with its convention plans.
