The unveiling of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, as the adopted political platform of Nigeria’s opposition coalition was temporarily disrupted on Wednesday, after reservation was suddenly withdrawn by the hotel’s management.
The cancellation, which occurred just hours before the programme was scheduled to begin, has triggered widespread backlash from opposition leaders who describe it as a deliberate act of sabotage influenced by political pressure from ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, loyalists.
The unveiling, billed to take place at the Wells Carlton Hotel in Asokoro, Abuja, was set to formally announce the ADC as the vehicle for a united opposition effort to unseat the APC in the 2027 general elections.
Despite full payment and prior confirmation of the venue, organisers were informed on Wednesday morning that the hotel would no longer host the event. The management cited an “internal compliance matter” in a message that was later posted by opposition figure and media personality Dele Momodu.
“Dear Esteemed Patron,” the hotel’s notice read, “We sincerely regret to inform you that due to an internal compliance matter that has just come to our attention, we are unable to proceed with hosting your scheduled event. We deeply apologise for the timing and inconvenience this may cause.”
The sudden withdrawal drew sharp criticism from political actors, with Momodu accusing the APC-led government of using fear to intimidate opposition forces.
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“The intimidation of opposition by a jittery government continues,” he wrote. “But this will not dampen the daredevil determination of opposition forces who are poised to hotly challenge the ruling party.”
Salihu Lukman, speaking on behalf of the organisers People and Passion Consult Ltd expressed outrage over what he described as a breach of contract.
In a statement shared via Momodu’s post, Lukman said: “Your management has no right to unilaterally sabotage a contract validly and legally agreed to and fully paid for. You must meet the terms of the contract fully. This is not negotiable.”
The opposition politicians later gathered at the Musa Yar’Adua Center, Abuja, fo their meeting. Present were ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi.
Other key political figures sighted at the venue include a former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai; a former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi; Senator Dino Melaye; a former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung; publisher and PDP chieftain, Dele Momodu; Senators Gabriel Suswam and Ireti Kingibe of the Labour Party; and a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha.
Also in attendance is a former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar.
Crediblenewsng.com
