The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has alleged that the venue for its convention in Abuja is facing pressure to cancel its reservation.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s national publicity secretary, said the management of Rainbow Event Centre informed organisers of threats from authorities.
According to him, the pressure is coming from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Abdullahi said despite meeting all financial obligations and finalising arrangements for the event, the venue owner warned that his licence could be revoked if he allows the ADC to proceed with the convention.
He maintained that the party has a binding agreement with the facility and would go ahead with the event as planned, insisting it would not yield to intimidation.
Atiku Reacts
Reacting, former vice-president Atiku Abubakar described the development as an abuse of power, saying attempts to block an opposition party from using a venue threaten democratic principles.
He argued that pressuring a private business to deny a legally registered party access to its facility is not governance but a sign of a government that has lost public confidence.
Abubakar said the ADC has fulfilled all legal and financial requirements, stressing that its only “offence” is organising and preparing for the 2027 elections.
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He warned that such actions could erode democratic institutions, noting that democracy is often weakened through repeated acts of intimidation against opposition groups and their right to assemble.
The former vice-president also called the attention of the international community to the situation, urging democratic partners to take note.
He added that the party would not be deterred and would proceed with its convention.
How ADC Was Denied Access To Eagle Square
Earlier, the ADC said it was denied access to Eagle Square and Moshood Abiola National Stadium for the event.
The party said it had written to the FCT minister seeking approval to use Eagle Square but received no response.
However, Lere Olayinka, spokesperson to Wike, said the party directed its request to the wrong office, noting that Eagle Square is managed by the Abuja Investments Company Limited.
He also questioned the timing of the request, pointing out that notice for such an event should have been given earlier in line with requirements of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The ADC has repeatedly accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and electoral authorities of interference following disputes over the party’s leadership.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
