By Our Correspondent
National News – ADC has confirmed that over 3,000 delegates will attend its national convention scheduled for April 14, 2026, in Abuja.
The African Democratic Congress said the event will proceed at Rainbow Hotel after difficulties securing Eagle Square and Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome.
The party accused authorities of frustrating venue approvals, while insisting preparations are complete and internal congresses were peacefully conducted nationwide.
The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bola Abdullahi, alleged that government institutions frustrated efforts to use major public venues, claiming repeated delays in approval for Eagle Square and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome in Abuja.
According to party leaders, former governors Liyel Imoke and Aminu Tambuwal head the convention coordination committee, while preparations aim to strengthen unity amid a prolonged leadership crisis that began in 2025 following disputes over the tenure of former chairman Ralph Nwosu and the emergence of a new leadership structure led by former Senate President David Mark.
Abdullahi further noted that legal disputes involving factional claims have reached the Supreme Court, with hearings expected, while INEC’s reported removal of key ADC figures, including David Mark and National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, has intensified tensions between the commission and the opposition party.
Despite these challenges, the ADC insists it remains focused on building a credible alternative political platform, urging members nationwide to remain committed as preparations continue for a free, fair, and credible national convention in Abuja.
Party officials said security arrangements, accreditation processes, and delegate verification from across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory have been concluded, ensuring smooth participation and transparency in line with democratic best practices ahead of the 2027 elections.
The upcoming convention is also expected to attract national attention as the ADC positions itself as part of a broader opposition coalition seeking to challenge the ruling party’s dominance, with analysts viewing the Abuja gathering as a key test of party unity and organizational strength.
Observers say outcomes may shape party direction toward 2027 general elections in Nigeria.
