By Deborah Nnamdi
The planned national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has hit a setback after the proprietor of Rainbow Event Centre withdrew permission for the party to use the facility.
The development was disclosed on Monday night by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, via his X account.
According to Abdullahi, the venue owner cited pressure from the Federal Capital Development Authority and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as the reason for the decision.
“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,” Abdullahi said.
He, however, insisted that the party would proceed with its plans despite the development, noting that a formal agreement had already been signed with the venue.
“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,” he added.
Earlier on Monday, the African Democratic Congress announced that it had secured the venue after authorities in the Federal Capital Territory declined its request to use Eagle Square and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome.
The party described the Abuja location as central and accessible, capable of accommodating delegates and stakeholders from across the country.
However, Wike denied claims that the party applied to use Eagle Square, stating that no such request was received. He also clarified that the stadium falls under the control of the National Sports Commission, not the FCT Administration.
The latest development comes amid a leadership crisis within the party, following the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to withdraw recognition of a faction led by David Mark based on a Court of Appeal ruling.
As the party moves ahead with its convention plans, the Supreme Court of Nigeria is expected to hear an appeal filed by Mark seeking to halt the execution of the appellate court judgment.
