ADC Secures New Convention Venue as Wike Denies Eagle Square Access Claim
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has confirmed a new venue for its national convention after claims that it was denied access to Eagle Square in Abuja stirred controversy.
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, however, has dismissed the allegation, insisting that no formal request was ever submitted for the use of the facility.
Speaking during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in the Federal Capital Territory on Monday, Wike said the process for securing Eagle Square is clear and open to all political parties and organisations.
“Anyone who wants to use Eagle Square must apply through the proper channel and make the required payment. No such application was brought to my office,” he said.
He added that both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) had previously followed due process when using the venue for their conventions, stressing that ADC was not being singled out.
While Wike maintained that there was no denial of access, the ADC leadership announced it had secured the National Rainbow Event Centre in Garki, Abuja, for its convention and second National Executive Committee meeting scheduled for today.
The venue, located near the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, has already been communicated to party stakeholders across the country, according to party sources.
The development comes amid ongoing internal and legal tensions within the party, including a leadership dispute currently before the Supreme Court. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also been involved in the matter following questions around recognition of the party’s leadership structure.
Meanwhile, the ADC has written to security agencies, including the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, requesting adequate security coverage for the event.
Despite the controversy, preparations for the convention are expected to proceed as scheduled.
