Breaking: ADC Unveiling Thrown Off Track as Abuja Hotel Cancels Booking

The official unveiling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a unifying platform for Nigeria’s opposition suffered an unexpected disruption on Wednesday after the reserved venue abruptly withdrew from hosting the event.

The cancellation, which occurred just hours before the programme was scheduled to begin, marked a major setback for the opposition coalition aiming to present a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Originally slated to hold at the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Asokoro, Abuja, the high-profile event was intended to formally announce the ADC as the adopted political vehicle for the coalition.

The gathering was expected to feature leading figures from across party lines, united in their mission to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next election cycle.

A screenshot of the hotel’s cancellation message, shared on Instagram by media personality and politician Dele Momodu, read:

“Dear Esteemed Patron,
Thank you once again for choosing the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments.
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 are fully aware that the event is less than 24 hours away, and we deeply apologise for the timing and inconvenience this may cause.”

The cancellation has sparked outrage among opposition figures, with Dele Momodu alleging political pressure as the reason behind the hotel’s abrupt decision.

“The intimidation of the opposition by a jittery government continues,” Momodu said.
“The hotel management suddenly cancelled the event due to what insiders described as fear of reprisals from APC operatives. But this will not dampen the determination of opposition forces poised to challenge the ruling party.”

Salihu Lukman, speaking on behalf of the event’s organisers, People and Passion Consult Ltd, described the cancellation as a clear breach of contract.

“This is unacceptable. Your management has no right to unilaterally sabotage a contract that was validly and legally agreed to and fully paid for,” Lukman said.
“You must meet the terms of the contract fully by allowing the event to hold with all agreed services. This is not negotiable.”

The ADC unveiling was expected to bring together an array of prominent political figures from across party lines, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, and former governors Aminu Tambuwal, Sule Lamido, Liyel Imoke, and Sam Egwu.

Also reportedly involved were Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, showing the broad scope of the coalition.

Despite the disruption, organisers have vowed that the unveiling will go on. In a statement, they confirmed that alternative arrangements are being finalised, and new venue details will be made public shortly.

DAILY POST