ADC Cries Foul Over Alleged Venue Sabotage as Wike Fires Back, Denies Any Political Interference
By Passman Akpos
ABUJA, Nigeria — Tensions have escalated in Nigeria’s political space as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) accused government agents of attempting to frustrate its national convention, triggering a sharp rebuttal from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
In a strongly worded statement attributed to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the ADC described the alleged plan to revoke the license of the Rainbow Event Centre as “a shameful and cowardly abuse of public office,” claiming it was targeted solely because the venue agreed to host the party’s convention scheduled for Tuesday.
The party insisted it had fulfilled all legal and financial obligations, stating, “The ADC has paid every fee, signed every contract, and broken no law. Our only offence is organising and preparing to retire this failed government at the ballot box in 2027.”
The statement further warned that such actions represent “the slow strangulation of democracy,” calling on the international community to take note of what it described as creeping authoritarianism. Despite the alleged intimidation, the party vowed that “the convention will hold,” declaring its resolve to remain “undeterred and unbowed.”
Supporters across the country echoed similar sentiments, describing the situation as a test of Nigeria’s democratic values. Many argued that denying a legally registered party the right to assemble peacefully would set a dangerous precedent, while others insisted the ADC’s growing popularity was fueling political anxiety among rivals.
However, in a swift response, Wike dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated. Speaking during a project inspection tour in Abuja, he described the claims as “unfounded” and accused the ADC of attempting to “gain public sympathy.”
“I am not aware of any such development. We do not deny access to public facilities. These events generate revenue for the government,” Wike stated.
He emphasized that access to major venues like Eagle Square is strictly governed by due process, requiring formal applications through the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) and payment of necessary fees.
According to him, no such application had been submitted by the ADC.
“When the APC and PDP used these venues, they complied with the process. We cannot deny anyone access if the rules are followed,” he added.
Wike also clarified that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome falls under the control of the National Sports Commission, not the FCT Administration, distancing his office from any related claims.
The controversy has sparked widespread debate, with political observers warning that the dispute—whether administrative or political—highlights deepening mistrust ahead of the 2027 general elections.
As both sides dig in, Nigerians are left watching closely, with many framing the moment as a defining test of democratic tolerance, institutional neutrality, and the right to political participation in Africa’s largest democracy.
