ADC Relocates National Convention to Private Venue Following Claims of Institutional Obstruction in Abuja

The ADC relocates its April 14 national convention to Rainbow Hotel, Abuja, after officials claim they were blocked from using Eagle Square and the National Stadium.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 13, 2026, 4:33 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Naija News

Opposition Gathering Faces Logistical Hurdles

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has confirmed that its upcoming national convention will proceed tomorrow despite significant challenges in securing a government-controlled venue. Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, revealed that the assembly of more than 3,000 delegates will now take place at the Rainbow Hotel in Abuja. This change of plans comes after the party failed to secure its preferred locations, highlighting the intensifying friction between the opposition and state authorities in the lead-up to the 2027 electoral cycle.

Allegations of State Sponsored Exclusion

Bolaji Abdullahi has leveled serious accusations against the authorities, claiming a deliberate attempt to frustrate the party's democratic processes. According to Abdullahi, the ADC submitted formal requests to utilize Eagle Square, a traditional site for major political gatherings, but the letters were met with total silence. The party also attempted to lease the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome, only to be told that a sudden cycling championship would occupy the space. Abdullahi questioned if certain public facilities have become the exclusive domain of the ruling party, describing the situation as an assault on opposition leadership.

Leadership Transition Amidst Internal Crisis

The convention takes place against the backdrop of a leadership struggle that has fractured the party since 2025. An updated committee list, signed by National Organising Secretary Chinedu Idigo, confirms former Cross River State governor Liyel Imoke as the chairman of the National Convention Central Coordination Committee. He is supported by deputy chairman Aminu Tambuwal, the former governor of Sokoto State. This new leadership tier, which includes former Senate President David Mark, is currently battling a rival faction led by Ralph Nwosu, leading to a complex web of litigation that threatens the party's cohesion.