ADC Convenes National Delegates Amid Venue Disputes and Calls for INEC Chairman's Removal

Over 2,500 ADC delegates meet in Abuja to elect leaders while the party’s House caucus demands the removal of INEC boss Joash Amupitan.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 14, 2026, 7:25 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Leadership News

National Convention Commences Amidst Logistical Relocation

The African Democratic Congress has successfully mobilized thousands of representatives from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory for its national convention today. Party insiders expect a turnout of up to 3,000 delegates who are tasked with electing a new leadership structure to steer the organization toward the 2027 general elections. While the event was originally envisioned for a larger public arena, the party leadership announced a last minute shift to the Rainbow Event Centre in Garki, describing the new location as a central and accessible hub for the gathered stakeholders.

Contradictory Accounts of Venue Access Denial

A heated public dispute has emerged between the ADC and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, regarding the use of iconic public spaces in Abuja. Kola Ologbondiyan, the chairman of the convention's media committee, insisted that the party was explicitly refused access to both Eagle Square and the MKO Abiola National Stadium Velodrome despite submitting formal requests. Minister Wike has flatly rejected these accusations, characterizing them as a strategy to garner public sympathy. The minister maintained that no formal application reached his office and challenged the party to provide an acknowledged copy of their request.

Legislative Caucus Demands Ouster of INEC Chief

The ADC Caucus in the House of Representatives has escalated the political tension by calling for the removal and prosecution of INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan. Led by Hon. Afam Ogene, the lawmakers expressed grave concerns over the chairman’s ability to oversee a credible election cycle, citing alleged partisan social media activity. The caucus pointed to digital forensic reports suggesting the chairman maintained an account that voiced support for the ruling party, an allegation that INEC has previously denied. The lawmakers argued that such perceived bias fundamentally undermines the commission's role as an impartial arbiter.