The highly anticipated unveiling of the African Democratic Congress as Nigeria’s unified opposition platform was thrown into chaos on Wednesday when the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Asokoro, Abuja abruptly canceled the event venue reservation just hours before the scheduled program.
The cancellation notice, shared on Instagram by media personality Dele Momodu, stated: “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.”
Momodu alleged political interference, stating: “The intimidation of the opposition by a jittery government continues. 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 of People and Passion Consult Ltd, the event organizers, condemned the action as a contract violation: “This is unacceptable. Your management has no right to unilaterally sabotage a contract that was validly and legally agreed to and fully paid for. 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 launch was meant to formally present the party as the coalition platform to challenge the APC in 2027, with attendance expected from major opposition figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, former governors Aminu Tambuwal, Sule Lamido, Liyel Imoke, and Sam Egwu.
Notably, the event also reportedly involved cross-party heavyweights like Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and ex-Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi – signaling the coalition’s broad-based opposition alliance.
Organizers have vowed to proceed at an alternative venue, with new arrangements expected to be announced imminently. The incident has intensified tensions between Nigeria’s opposition and the ruling party, raising questions about political space ahead of the 2027 elections.
