A former lawmaker who represented Kogi West Senatorial District, Dino Melaye, has declared that the national convention of the African Democratic Congress will proceed as planned on Tuesday, dismissing earlier concerns surrounding the use of the Rainbow Event Centre in Abuja.
Melaye, a prominent chieftain of the party, made the assertion while addressing journalists at the convention venue, projecting confidence that the gathering would go on without disruption despite what party officials have described as mounting external pressure.
The controversy stems from allegations made by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, who claimed on Monday night that there had been a last-minute attempt to frustrate the event. According to Abdullahi, the alleged pressure was exerted on the management of the event centre to cancel the booking for the convention.
He specifically pointed fingers at the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Federal Capital Development Authority, accusing them of orchestrating what he termed political intimidation.
Abdullahi did not mince words in his reaction, describing the situation as an example of “creeping tyranny” and a threat to democratic principles. He argued that attempts to obstruct a lawful political gathering raise serious concerns about the state of political tolerance and institutional neutrality in the country.
Despite these allegations, Melaye struck a defiant tone, insisting that the ADC remained resolute and would not be deterred. Standing at the venue, he reassured party members and supporters that all necessary arrangements had been made and that the convention would proceed as scheduled.
“This convention will hold. We are here, and we are ready. Nobody can stop a lawful gathering of Nigerians,” Melaye told reporters, signaling the party’s determination to move forward regardless of the challenges.
The Rainbow Event Centre, which had become the focal point of the controversy, witnessed heightened activity as delegates, party officials, and security personnel gathered ahead of the proceedings. While there was no immediate disruption, the situation underscored the tense political climate surrounding the event.
Political observers note that national conventions are critical milestones for parties, often serving as platforms for leadership decisions, policy direction, and strategic positioning ahead of future elections. As such, any perceived interference is likely to draw strong reactions from party stakeholders.
Supporters of the ADC at the venue expressed mixed feelings, relief that the event appeared set to proceed, but also concern about the implications of the allegations. Some described the situation as a test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the rights of political parties to assemble freely.
On the other hand, there has been no official response at the time of filing this report from the office of the FCT Minister or the Federal Capital Development Authority regarding the allegations raised by the ADC leadership.
As the convention gets underway, attention is expected to remain focused not only on the party’s internal deliberations but also on the broader political signals emanating from the controversy. For the ADC, the successful hosting of the convention may serve as both a symbolic and practical demonstration of its resolve in the face of perceived challenges.
In the end, Melaye’s declaration appears to have set the tone for the day: one of determination, resistance, and an insistence that democratic processes must be allowed to unfold without interference.
