 as a coalition platform for Nigeria’s 2027 elections was abruptly halted on Wednesday.){kind=link}
A major opposition event aimed at unveiling the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a coalition platform for Nigeria’s 2027 elections was abruptly halted on Wednesday.
This comes as a hotel in Abuja withdrew its approval to host the gathering, despite prior payment and confirmation.
The unveiling, scheduled for the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in the upscale Asokoro area, was set to formally announce the ADC as the new political vehicle for several opposition figures united in their effort to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general election.
However, just hours before the event, organisers were notified that the hotel could no longer proceed with the booking.
The cancellation was attributed to an unspecified “internal compliance issue,” according to a message shared by media personality and politician Dele Momodu.
Part of the hotel’s message read:
“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 fully understand the inconvenience, and we deeply apologise for the timing.”
The move has sparked outrage among opposition leaders and civil society groups, with accusations that political interference may have influenced the hotel’s decision.
Momodu alleged that the venue pulled out under pressure from government-linked actors, describing the cancellation as part of a broader campaign to suppress opposition activities.
“This is another act of intimidation by a nervous regime,” Momodu posted.
“The ruling party’s operatives are behind this last-minute cancellation. But we will not be discouraged — our fight to rescue Nigeria is just beginning.”
Similarly, Salihu Lukman of People and Passion Consult Ltd, a group involved in the event’s planning, condemned the hotel’s action. He accused the management of breaching a legally binding agreement.
“It is totally unacceptable,” Lukman said in a statement. “You had no legal right to cancel a fully paid contract without justification. We demand that this agreement be honoured. Anything less is a violation of trust and business ethics.”
The cancelled event was expected to draw several high-profile politicians across party lines.
Among those reportedly scheduled to attend were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, former governors Aminu Tambuwal, Sule Lamido, Sam Egwu, Liyel Imoke, and Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Also listed were former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and ex-Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi.