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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is expressing alarm over what it perceives as attempts to thwart its upcoming national convention. Despite securing and paying for a venue, the party is facing obstacles that threaten the event.
On the day before the convention was set to take place, the ADC revealed in a statement that Rainbow Event Centre’s management had communicated that they were under significant pressure to cancel the booking.
The ADC alleges that this pressure originated from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. According to the party, the venue’s owner received warnings that his operational licence might be revoked if the convention proceeded as planned.
Alleged Threats Over Venue Use
The party’s statement conveyed their dismay: “After paying all the required fees and completing preparations for our convention tomorrow, the owner of Rainbow Event Centre has informed us of the pressure from the FCDA and the FCT Minister,” highlighting the precarious situation they now face.
“After paying all the required fees and putting finishing touches to preparations for our convention tomorrow, the owner of Rainbow Event Centre has just informed us that he is under pressure from the FCDA and the FCT Minister,” the statement read.
Despite the development, the ADC maintained that it has a valid and binding agreement with the venue and intends to proceed as planned.
“But we have already signed a contract with him. We will hold our convention tomorrow as planned at the Rainbow Event Centre,” the party added.
Party Vows to Proceed
Describing the situation as an attempt to suppress political freedom, the ADC warned against what it called growing authoritarian tendencies in the country’s political space.
“We will not bow to this creeping tyranny. And definitely not to this petty tyrant,” the statement said, taking a swipe at the FCT administration.
The party reaffirmed its determination, insisting that its movement remains strong and resilient.
“ADC is rising, Nigeria is rising,” it concluded.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the FCDA nor the office of the FCT Minister had responded to the allegations.
The ADC had earlier disclosed difficulties in securing alternative venues, including the Moshood Abiola Stadium and Eagle Square, after unsuccessful booking attempts.