TDThe African Democratic Congress (ADC) pressed ahead with its National Convention in Abuja on Tuesday, defying both administrative hurdles and a Federal High Court injunction that sought to halt the gathering.
The event, which has drawn delegates from across the country, underscores the party’s determination to assert its independence despite mounting political and legal challenges.
Wike’s Obstruction Surmounted
Party officials accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, of attempts to scuttle the convention by denying them access to major venues in Abuja.
Wike, popularly referred to as the “Abuja landlord,” allegedly used his office to block the ADC’s request to use Eagles Square, one of the city’s most prominent public spaces.
The ADC had formally applied on April 7, 2026, for permission to hold its convention at Eagles Square.
While the application was acknowledged by the Minister’s office, no approval was granted.
Party leaders described the silence as unusual, given the scale and importance of the convention, and insisted that they had promised to meet all security and facility management requirements.
Stadium and Event Centres Decline Requests
When the Eagles Square option stalled, the ADC approached the Ministry of Sports to request use of the MKO Abiola Stadium Velodrome.
That request was rejected outright.
Privately owned event centres across Abuja also declined to host the convention.
Sources suggested that owners feared harassment or reprisals from government agencies if they accommodated the opposition party.
This fueled speculation of deliberate obstruction, though authorities have yet to issue a public statement.
Power Cut and Emergency Response
In a dramatic twist, the Rainbow Event Centre, the venue eventually secured by the ADC, was reportedly targeted with a sudden power cut, rendering the facility unusable.
However, Dino Melaye, a prominent party figure, and his protocol committee quickly arranged for an industrial‑sized generator capable of powering the entire venue, including its air‑conditioning system.
This swift intervention allowed the convention to proceed, despite what party members described as “sabotage attempts.”
Court Ruling Adds to Tension
Earlier in the day, the Federal High Court in Abuja delivered a ruling that nullified all congresses conducted by the ADC nationwide.
The court also granted an injunction restraining the party from holding its planned national convention until the substantive case is determined.
The case was filed by the 36 State Chairmen of the ADC, who argued that the Coalition leadership had sidelined them in organizing congresses.
The presiding judge ruled that all congresses conducted under the Coalition’s authority were invalid, effectively preserving the positions of the State Chairmen.
This ruling marked a significant escalation in the party’s internal crisis, deepening the divide between grassroots leaders and the Coalition leadership.
Convention Goes Ahead
Despite the court order, the ADC proceeded with its convention, insisting that its mission could not be derailed.
National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola declared that the party’s resolve was unshaken.
“No amount of effort to weaken us will work. Just as no one can stop the sun from rising, the ADC cannot be stopped.
“The ADC is not beholden to any individual, including biased regulators. Our mandate comes from the Nigerian Constitution.
“We are here on a rescue mission. We cannot allow kakistocracy to take root in Nigeria,” he said.
Aregbesola criticized the current administration, saying it had promised “renewed hope” four years ago but had failed to deliver tangible results.
He emphasized that Nigerians deserve accountability and real progress, not repeated promises.
Political Implications
The ADC’s decision to defy both the FCT Minister and the Federal High Court highlights the party’s determination to project itself as a resilient opposition force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, analysts warn that the legal and administrative battles could undermine its credibility and organizational strength.
The confrontation with Wike also raises questions about political interference in the democratic process.
Denying opposition parties access to public venues has long been criticized as a tactic that stifles political competition.
The ADC’s experience may intensify calls for reforms to ensure equal access to facilities for all political actors.
Grassroots vs. Coalition Leadership
The dispute between the State Chairmen and the Coalition leadership reflects deeper tensions within the ADC.
Grassroots leaders argue that they have been marginalized, while the Coalition insists it is pursuing reforms to strengthen the party nationally.
The Federal High Court’s ruling in favor of the State Chairmen temporarily preserves their authority.
Meanwhile, the ADC’s decision to proceed with the convention suggests that the Coalition leadership is unwilling to cede ground.
This sets the stage for further legal and political battles in the months ahead.
The ADC’s National Convention in Abuja has become a symbol of defiance in the face of political obstruction and judicial intervention.
While the party succeeded in holding its congress despite last‑minute hurdles, the leadership crisis remains unresolved.
As the 2027 elections approach, the ADC must navigate both internal divisions and external pressures if it hopes to present itself as a credible alternative to Nigeria’s dominant parties.
For now, its convention stands as a testament to resilience—but also as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead.
Sights and sounds of the event will be published in This Dawn News next bulletin.
