The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised alarm over what it described as political pressure aimed at stopping its planned convention in Abuja, despite having fully paid for and secured the venue.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party alleged that the management of Rainbow Event Centre had come under threat from authorities to cancel the event scheduled to hold at the facility.
According to Abdullahi, the party had completed all necessary arrangements, including payment and setup, ahead of the convention. However, the owner of the event centre reportedly informed the party at the last minute that he was under pressure to withdraw the venue.
“After paying all the fees required and setting up for our convention tomorrow, the owner of Rainbow Event Centre has just informed us that he has come under pressure from the Federal Capital Development Authority and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory,” Abdullahi said.
He specifically named Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), alleging that the threat involved the possible revocation of the venue’s operating licence if it allowed the ADC to go ahead with its event.
The Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) is the government body responsible for overseeing development and regulation of infrastructure within Abuja, including licensing of event centres and other facilities.
Abdullahi claimed that the pressure placed on the venue owner was unfair and a violation of democratic principles. Despite the alleged threat, he insisted that the party would not cancel or postpone its convention.
“But we have already signed the contract with him. We will hold our convention tomorrow as planned at the Rainbow Event Centre,” he said.
He further described the situation as an example of what he called “creeping tyranny,” adding that the party would not give in to intimidation.
“We will not bow to this creeping tyranny. And definitely not to this petty tyrant,” he added.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the FCT administration or Minister Wike regarding the allegations.
The development has raised concerns among political observers and civil society groups about the state of political freedom in Nigeria, especially as political parties begin to prepare for future elections.
The ADC, though not one of the major ruling parties, has continued to position itself as an alternative platform in Nigeria’s political space. The party has in recent years participated in national elections and has been working to expand its influence across different regions of the country.
Political conventions are important events for parties, as they provide an opportunity to make key decisions, outline strategies, and mobilise members. Such gatherings are also seen as a way to strengthen internal democracy and prepare for upcoming electoral contests.
Abuja, being the nation’s capital, often hosts major political events due to its central location and availability of infrastructure. However, it is also under the direct control of the federal government through the FCT administration, which has regulatory authority over venues and public spaces.
This has sometimes led to tensions, especially when opposition parties or groups allege unfair treatment or restrictions in accessing public facilities.
The current situation involving the ADC and Rainbow Event Centre reflects the delicate balance between regulation and political freedom. While the authorities may argue that they are acting within their mandate, the party sees it as an attempt to silence opposition voices.
For the venue owner, the situation also presents a difficult choice. On one hand, there is a contractual agreement with the ADC. On the other hand, there is the reported threat to his business licence, which could have serious financial consequences.
As the date of the convention draws closer, all eyes will be on whether the event will go ahead as planned or if further developments will force a change.
For now, the ADC has maintained a firm position, insisting that it will proceed with the convention regardless of the alleged threats.
The situation highlights ongoing debates about political space, rule of law, and the rights of opposition parties in Nigeria. With political activities expected to increase in the coming years, especially ahead of future elections, issues like this may continue to test the country’s democratic institutions.
Whether the matter will be resolved quietly or escalate further remains to be seen, but it has already sparked conversations about fairness, authority, and the limits of government power in a democratic society.