ADC Adoption: David Mark Appointed Chairman, Aregbesola as Secretary by Coalition

 

ADC Adoption: David Mark Appointed Chairman, Aregbesola as Secretary by Coalition

In the 2027 election, opposition members from several parties are banding together to overthrow the All Progressives Congress, which is now in power.

On Wednesday, Nigeria's opposition coalition experienced a significant disruption when its scheduled unveiling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at the Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Asokoro, Abuja, was abruptly cancelled just hours before the event was set to begin. The ceremony, designed to formally designate the ADC as the collective political vehicle to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections, had been fully booked and prepaid. Yet, the organizers were informed on the morning of the event that the venue could no longer host them, citing an unspecified "internal compliance matter."

Hotel Cites Internal Compliance in Last-Minute Notice

Media personality and politician Dele Momodu shared a screenshot of the cancellation notice via his Instagram account, which began with courteous greetings to the "Esteemed Patron" and thanked organizers for choosing the venue. It then stated:

"We are deeply sorry to notify you that because of an internal compliance matter that has just come to our attention, we are unable to proceed with hosting your scheduled event. We are fully aware that the event is less than 24 hours away, and we deeply apologise for the timing and inconvenience this may cause."

Opposition Alleges Government Intimidation

The late notice—coming less than a day before the launch—prompted immediate accusations of political intimidation. Momodu and other opposition leaders claimed that the cancellation was the product of pressure from APC operatives fearful of a unified opposition platform. He condemned the decision as yet another attempt by the "jittery government" to stifle dissent, and insisted that such tactics would not sway their determination.

Campaign Team Condemns Breach of Contract

In response, the ADC campaign team issued a statement, drafted by Salihu Lukman of People and Passion Consult Ltd, characterizing the hotel's action as a breach of contract. The statement declared it was "unacceptable" for the hotel to unilaterally renege on an agreement that had been both legally executed and fully prepaid. It demanded that the venue uphold its contractual obligations, offering complete event support as arranged initially, and emphasized that this demand was "not negotiable."

High-Profile Attendees Expected at Unveiling

The cancellation rattled the opposition, as the planned unveiling was expected to attract heavyweight political figures cutting across party lines. Among those slated to appear were former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, and former governors Aminu Tambuwal, Sule Lamido, Liyel Imoke, and Sam Egwu. Additionally, the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi were also reportedly involved.

Coalition Swiftly Secures New Venue

Despite the abrupt venue withdrawal sparking outrage, the coalition remained resolute. Within hours, they reorganized and confirmed a new location for the unveiling: the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre in Abuja. ADC Deputy National Secretary Nkem Ukandu announced that the event would proceed at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, emphasizing that attendance was self-sponsored and open to members of the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee, and other key stakeholders.

Speculation Grows Over Political Pressure

Ukandu's statement did not elaborate on why the hotel cited "internal compliance," but based on the rallying opposition response, many observers believe the cancellation stemmed from behind‑the‑scenes political pressure. Some reports noted that the Wells Carlton had previously accommodated FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, fueling speculation that the venue was wary of potential government backlash if it hosted a significant opposition event.

Opposition Blasts Undemocratic Tactics

Opposition leaders' responses were quick and passionate across social and mainstream media. They stated that by giving in to pressure, the hotel was attempting to undermine the democratic process. They described the episode using strong terminology, such as "daredevil determination," as representative of a larger effort by the ruling party to limit political competition.

Event Proceeds Amidst Resilience and Unity

But the adversaries showed their resolve by swiftly altering their plan, finding a new site, and restating their promise. The unveiling event went forward as planned because of the rescheduling Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Center celebration, which ensured that Nigeria's top opposition players stayed united in their promise to oppose the APC in the upcoming election cycle.