The African Democratic Congress (ADC) recently held its national convention at the Rainbow Events Centre in Abuja, which was attended by approximately 1,576 delegates. This event, however, was not without controversy, as it faced significant challenges regarding venue arrangements due to alleged political intimidation.
Prior to the convention, David Mark, the party’s leader, expelled Nafiu Bala and several others for purported anti-party activities. The exact reasons for this expulsion remain unclear, and details remain unconfirmed.
Senator Dino Melaye accused the ruling party of attempting to disrupt the ADC convention, highlighting the tense political atmosphere surrounding the event. Melaye stated, “We be di owners of dis place, we sign contract, we sign agreement and dem open di place,” emphasizing the ADC’s legal right to use the venue.
Despite the challenges, the ADC had signed a contract for the use of the Rainbow Events Centre and paid all required fees. Nyesom Wike, a key figure in the party, noted, “E no get any way we go deny dem bicos we dey collect revenue from am, you gatz pay and nobodi don write to us,” reinforcing the legitimacy of their venue arrangements.
Atiku Abubakar also weighed in on the situation, criticizing the political pressure exerted on private venue owners. He remarked, “To force a private business owner to deny a lawfully registered opposition party di use of a venue no be governance, e no be politics, na di naked conduct of a regime wey don lose di argument.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it will not recognize either David Mark or Nafiu Bala as chairman until court decisions are made regarding the leadership dispute within the ADC.
Bolaji Abdullahi, another prominent ADC member, expressed defiance against the political pressures, declaring, “We will not bow to this creeping tyranny. And definitely not to this petty tyrant.”
Looking ahead, observers are keenly awaiting the outcomes of the court cases that will determine the leadership of the ADC. The political landscape within the party remains uncertain as it navigates these challenges.