The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused authorities in the Federal Capital Territory of attempting to prevent it from holding its national convention in Abuja.
In a statement, the party said it had secured and paid for the Rainbow Event Centre but was later informed by the venue’s management of alleged pressure from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to cancel the booking.
The ADC claimed the owner of the facility was threatened with the revocation of his licence if the event goes ahead. It said all financial obligations had been met and preparations completed before the notice was received.
Despite the development, the party insisted it would proceed with the convention as planned, citing a binding agreement with the venue.Describing the situation as an attempt to suppress democratic rights, the ADC warned against what it called “creeping tyranny” in the political space.
However, Wike has denied the allegations, saying no formal application for the use of any facility for the ADC convention was brought before him.
Who denied them? I am not aware of any such development, and I don’t even know which party you are referring to. If it is the African Democratic Congress (ADC), such claims are their usual attempt to gain public sympathy,” Wike said.
The minister said the use of Eagle Square is subject to due process, which includes a formal application through the Abuja Investments Company Limited, which is in charge of the facility.
The party also disclosed that earlier efforts to secure alternative venues, including the Moshood Abiola National Stadium and Eagle Square, were unsuccessful.
Writing by Tersoo Zamber