The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of allegedly orchestrating efforts to constrict Nigeria’s democratic space and frustrate opposition activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party made the allegation in a press statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, Esq., in which it raised concerns over what it described as increasing political intimidation, discrimination and attempts to obstruct opposition parties from carrying out their activities.
According to the NDC, it has not only been subjected to alleged violent attacks by agents of the ruling APC but has also encountered difficulties securing meeting and event venues from hotels in Abuja.
NDC Accuses Rockview Hotel of Repeated Cancellations
The opposition party specifically accused Rockview Hotel, Abuja, of repeatedly withdrawing previously agreed arrangements for the use of its facilities.
The NDC said the first incident occurred in June 2026, when the hotel allegedly cancelled an agreement for the party to hold its second National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at the venue.
The party claimed that the hotel recently rejected another request to use its facilities for a meeting, allegedly explaining that the decision was based on an “order from above.”
The NDC expressed concern that such developments could indicate political interference in the operations of private businesses and undermine the ability of opposition parties to function freely.
BON Hotel Also Accused of Discrimination
The party further accused BON Hotel, Wuse, Abuja, of refusing to provide its facilities for a meeting despite the NDC allegedly fulfilling all the conditions stipulated by the establishment.
The NDC also recalled what it described as last-minute complications surrounding the unveiling of its National Campaign Council (NCC).
According to the statement, the hotel initially agreed to host the event after receiving payment but subsequently contacted the party, requesting a refund and indicating that it was no longer interested in making its facilities available.
The party suggested that the withdrawal might have been prompted by alleged threats or instructions from influential quarters.
However, the NDC said its insistence on proceeding with the arrangement, having already paid for the facility, eventually compelled the hotel to honour the agreement.
NDC Calls for Equal Political Opportunities
Reacting to the incidents, the opposition party argued that denying political organisations access to venues and other essential facilities undermines democratic competition.
The NDC called on the APC-led government to allow all political parties to conduct their activities and campaigns without intimidation, discrimination or unnecessary restrictions.
It maintained that Nigerians should be allowed to freely decide who governs them through a credible and competitive electoral process.
The party also appealed to Nigerians and supporters of democracy to publicly question the conduct of Rockview Hotel and BON Hotel over the alleged incidents.
NDC Reaffirms Commitment to 2027 Elections
Despite the alleged challenges, the NDC declared its determination to continue its political activities and offer Nigerians an alternative leadership platform.
“Nigerians deserve better, and NDC is prepared to serve with passion and patriotism,” the statement declared.
The party concluded with its political slogan: “A New Nigeria is POssible! We can do it.”
Background and Implications
The allegations come amid growing political activities and preparations by opposition parties ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
Access to meeting venues, campaign facilities and other logistical resources is essential to the ability of political parties to organise, engage supporters and communicate their programmes.
However, the allegations against the two Abuja hotels remain claims made by the NDC.
The press statement did not include independent evidence establishing that either hotel acted under political pressure.
Rockview Hotel and BON Hotel had not provided responses to the allegations in the statement.
Their explanations would be important in establishing the circumstances surrounding the reported cancellations and refusals.
The development raises questions about the responsibilities of private businesses in maintaining neutrality when providing commercial services to competing political organisations.
