The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has confirmed that more than 3,000 delegates will attend its national convention scheduled for April 14 in Abuja, as the party presses on with preparations despite challenges securing preferred venues.
Speaking in an interview, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bola Abdullahi alleged that authorities frustrated the party’s efforts to use both Eagle Square and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome. He said the convention will now take place at the Rainbow Hotel in Abuja.
Abdullahi described the situation as an attack on opposition parties, claiming that repeated requests to use Eagle Square were ignored, while initial approval for the stadium velodrome was withdrawn due to a scheduled cycling event.
He questioned what he described as unequal access to public venues, referencing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and asking whether national facilities should be restricted along party lines.
Despite the setbacks, the ADC insisted it would proceed with its convention and other political activities. Abdullahi said there was no indication yet that security agencies had declined support, adding that party members remain committed to holding what he described as a free and credible gathering.
The party also confirmed that newly elected state executives would be formally inaugurated on May 12, 2026, or on a later date to be announced.
In a separate statement, the ADC congratulated its state chairmen and executives following what it described as peaceful ward and state congresses nationwide, emphasizing its commitment to internal democracy and adherence to the rule of law.
As part of preparations, the party released updated lists of its convention committees. The Central Coordination Committee is chaired by former Cross River State governor Liyel Imoke, with former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal serving as deputy.
The convention comes against the backdrop of an ongoing leadership crisis within the party, which began in 2025 after the emergence of a new National Working Committee led by former Senate President David Mark. The dispute, involving former chairman Ralph Nwosu and his deputy Nafiu Bala Gombe, has led to factional divisions and multiple legal battles.
Tensions escalated further after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) removed key ADC figures, including Mark and the party’s National Secretary, from its official records earlier this month.
At a recent press conference, Mark criticized the electoral body’s actions, accusing it of bias and insisting the party would proceed with its political activities regardless of recognition by the commission.
