Barely 24 hours to its national convention, the African Democratic Congress was on Monday thrown into confusion after failing to secure a venue in Abuja, before eventually settling for a private event centre late in the day.
The party confirmed that the convention would now hold at the Rainbow Event Centre, Abuja, following failed attempts to obtain approval for other facilities.
The development highlights growing challenges confronting the opposition party, including logistical setbacks and internal divisions, as it prepares for a crucial gathering expected to shape its leadership and strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Earlier, the ADC had been embroiled in a dispute with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over access to Eagle Square. While the party claimed it was denied approval despite submitting a request, the minister dismissed the allegation, insisting no formal application was received.
A media aide to the party’s embattled National Chairman, Senator David Mark, Kola Ologbondiyan, said the ADC made efforts to secure the Eagle Square but got no response after its letter was acknowledged.
He added that attempts to use the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, including the Velodrome, were unsuccessful, noting that officials of the Ministry of Sports declined the request.
Ologbondiyan further alleged that several privately-owned event centres in the Federal Capital Territory also turned down the party’s requests over fears of possible government backlash.
Despite the challenges, the party maintained that the convention would proceed as scheduled, assuring members and stakeholders of its readiness.
In a statement issued late Monday, the ADC said the choice of the Rainbow Event Centre would provide a suitable and accessible location for delegates expected from across the country.
The convention is expected to attract thousands of party members and stakeholders and is seen as a critical step in strengthening the party’s structure and consolidating alliances ahead of the next electoral cycle.
However, the event is taking place amid a lingering leadership crisis, with multiple factions laying claim to the party’s structure, while the Independent National Electoral Commission has yet to recognise a unified leadership.
While the Mark-led faction is proceeding with the convention, a rival group has distanced itself from the process, further deepening uncertainty over the party’s cohesion.
Reacting to the controversy, Wike described claims of political interference as unfounded, stressing that public facilities such as Eagle Square remain accessible to all groups that comply with due process.
He noted that applications for the use of the facility must be routed through the appropriate authorities and accompanied by the required payments.
Meanwhile, former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, expressed confidence in the ADC’s capacity to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress, describing the party as a credible platform for political change.
Malami, in a statement by his media aide, Bello Doka, said he remained committed to the party’s vision, adding that its growing support base signalled a renewed push to reposition governance at both state and national levels.
