By| Goodluck E.Adubazi | Abuja
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised alarm over alleged attempts to prevent it from holding its national convention at the Rainbow Event Centre, despite having secured and paid for the facility.
In a statement released on the eve of the convention, the party disclosed that the venue’s management informed it of mounting pressure from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to cancel the booking.
According to the ADC, the owner of the event centre was allegedly threatened with the revocation of his operational licence if he allows the gathering to proceed.
The party stated that it had fulfilled all financial obligations and concluded arrangements for the convention before receiving the notice.
“After paying all required fees and putting finishing touches to preparations for our convention tomorrow, the owner of Rainbow Event Centre informed us that he is under pressure from the FCDA and the FCT Minister,” the statement read.
Despite the development, the ADC insisted that it has a binding agreement with the venue and will proceed with the event as planned.
“We have already signed a contract with him. We will hold our convention tomorrow as scheduled,” the party declared.
Describing the situation as an effort to suppress democratic expression, the ADC warned against what it termed “creeping tyranny” in the political environment, taking a direct swipe at the FCT administration.
Reaffirming its stance, the party maintained that its movement remains resolute and undeterred.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the FCDA nor the office of the FCT Minister had responded to the allegations.
The ADC also noted that earlier attempts to secure alternative venues, including the Moshood Abiola Stadium and Eagle Square, were unsuccessful.
