The planned national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) scheduled for April 14, 2026, is facing serious uncertainty following allegations of venue denials, internal party disputes, and ongoing court cases affecting preparations for the event.
Speaking on ARISE News on Monday, Sumner Sambo, Director of News and Politics Editor at ARISE News, said the party has encountered significant difficulties securing a venue in Abuja despite making formal requests to relevant authorities.
According to Sumner Sambo, the ADC initially wrote to the office of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, seeking approval to use Eagle Square for its convention.
He stated that although the letter was acknowledged, the party did not receive any official approval or rejection.
He also disclosed that the party also approached the Federal Ministry of Sports Development for permission to use the velodrome at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, but the request was reportedly declined without explanation.
Beyond government facilities, Sambo alleged that the party faced additional setbacks from private event centre owners, who reportedly refused to honour bookings due to fear of political backlash or pressure.
Despite these challenges, Sambo said ADC leaders remain determined to proceed with the convention, insisting that alternative arrangements are being explored within the Federal Capital Territory, including the possibility of using an open field if necessary.
He also highlighted growing legal tensions surrounding the party, noting that the Supreme Court is expected to hear a case involving former Senate President David Mark over jurisdictional issues concerning internal party disputes.
He added that parallel proceedings were also ongoing at the Federal High Court, which may defer to the Supreme Court’s ruling.
According to Sambo, these legal uncertainties could affect the legitimacy and outcomes of decisions expected at the convention, further complicating preparations.
He also pointed to internal divisions within the ADC across several states, including Edo and Katsina, where leadership disputes and contested congress outcomes have created parallel factions and legal challenges.
Sambo described the situation as reflective of a broader problem in Nigerian politics, where weak internal democracy across parties often leads to litigation rather than resolution.
Despite the crisis, he observed that the ADC continues to attract new members but warned that prolonged instability could push stakeholders to reconsider their political alignment ahead of future elections.
He further noted that some political actors may consider leaving the party if the situation is not resolved by mid-May.
On the broader political landscape, Sumner Sambo cautioned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against overconfidence, stating that Nigeria’s electoral margins remain narrow and politically unpredictable.
He acknowledged the political strengths of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu but said governance performance would ultimately determine public judgment.
- Sambo concluded that the coming days would be decisive for the ADC, as the party attempts to resolve its internal and logistical challenges ahead of the scheduled convention.
