Prominent opposition figures, including former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, met at the residence of the embattled National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Senator David Mark, for a strategic briefing.
The closed-door meeting, which took place on Tuesday on the sidelines of the ADC national convention focused on final preparations and coordination.
Other notable attendees included former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal, party chieftains Hajia Naja’atu Mohammed, and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.
Pictures and video clips of the meeting were shared on X by the CRA27 Advocacy Network, an organization backing Amaechi’s political vision, with the caption: “LIVE: ADC CONVENTION HE Rotimi Amaechi at the residence of Senator David Mark for a strategic briefing alongside HE Peter Obi, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, and Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.”
Another post read, “H.E Rotimi Amaechi Joined by Hajia Naja’atu Mohammed and Alhaji Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, the ADC leaders are making final preparations before heading to the convention.”
News Agency of Nigeria had reported that no fewer than 3,000 delegates arrived at the Rainbow Event Centre in Garki, Abuja.
The delegates, dressed in colorful attire, were drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, showcasing unity and diversity within party ranks.
Security personnel conducted thorough checks on all delegates before granting them access, as accreditation commenced under the supervision of the accreditation sub-committee chaired by Austin Akobundu.
Speaking, the party’s National Organizing Secretary, Chinedu Idigo, expressed dissatisfaction over the challenges faced by the party in securing a befitting venue, alleging that several private business owners declined to host the ADC due to what he described as external pressures and threats.
“We wrote to use the Eagle Square but received no response, and our request for the Velodrome, at the National Stadium, was also denied without explanation.
“We approached several venues, including hotels and event centres, but once they realised it was ADC, they declined, citing fear of possible repercussions.
“Even this Rainbow Event Centre initially attempted to cancel after alleged threats, but we insisted on proceeding since payments had already been made,” he stated.
Also Read: ADC ignores INEC, picks date for convention
“I do not understand why businesses in Nigeria cannot operate freely without intimidation, as this situation is causing significant financial losses to private operators,” he said.
According to Idigo, the convention will conclude the party’s congresses, ratify a new constitution, and set the stage for the party’s primaries.
In another development, the Minority Whip of the House of Representatives, Ali Isa, on Tuesday, resigned from the People’s Democratic Party, citing internal crisis and alleged undemocratic practices within the party.
In a resignation letter April 14, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of Kindiyo Ward in Balanga Local Government Area of Gombe State, Isa said his decision takes immediate effect.
He stated that his exit was “compelled by the way and manner some undemocratic forces have hijacked the party for reasons that are contrary to the founding principles and philosophy of the party, which created a factional leadership.”
The lawmaker, who represents Balanga/Billiri Federal Constituency, said he took the decision after wide consultations with key stakeholders.
“After a series of rigorous consultations with my family, political associates, friends, and relevant stakeholders, I have arrived at the conclusion that the path to my political future, as well as the political future of the great people who gave me their mandate, lies outside the PDP,” he said.
Isa added that his priority remains the welfare and political future of his constituents, noting that they deserve a more viable platform.
“It is my firm belief that the people of my constituency deserve a platform on which their interests and political future will be better guaranteed,” he stated.
He, however, thanked the PDP for the opportunity to serve.
“I wish to sincerely thank the leadership and membership of the party for giving me the platform on which the people of Balanga/Billiri Federal Constituency gave me the wonderful opportunity to represent them at the National Assembly. I will ever remain grateful and wish you all the best,” he added.
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