The planned national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is facing growing uncertainty as the party struggles to secure a venue in Abuja less than 24 hours to the scheduled event.
The development has sparked fresh concerns over the feasibility of the gathering, which is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the party’s leadership structure and strengthening its political direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to media aide to Senator David Mark’s faction of the party, Kola Ologbondiyan, efforts to secure a suitable venue have so far proved unsuccessful despite last-minute engagements with relevant authorities.
He said the party had formally written to the office of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, seeking approval to use Eagle Square, but had yet to receive a response despite acknowledgment of the request.
Ologbondiyan further disclosed that attempts to book the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, including the Velodrome, also failed after engagements with officials of the sports ministry.
He alleged that privately owned event centres within Abuja have declined to host the convention, citing fears of possible political backlash.
Despite the setbacks, the party insists the convention will go ahead as planned on April 14, adding that it has already notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the exercise.
The convention is expected to attract thousands of delegates and is seen as a key moment for consolidating alliances within a broader opposition coalition.
However, the situation is further complicated by internal divisions within the party, with a rival faction aligned to Dumebi Kachikwu rejecting the planned convention and pursuing a separate political agenda.
The combination of logistical hurdles and deepening internal rifts has heightened uncertainty over the party’s unity and preparedness at a critical political moment.
ADC Convention in Jeopardy as Abuja Venue Crisis Deepens
