Coalition Setback: Abuja Hotel Cancels ADC Unveiling, Opposition Cries Foul

Plans to launch the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a new opposition coalition platform hit a roadblock on Wednesday when the venue abruptly cancelled a fully paid booking just hours before the scheduled event.

The unveiling, set to take place at the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Asokoro, Abuja, was intended to formally present the ADC as the rallying point for opposition forces ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

However, on Wednesday morning, organisers were notified that the hotel would no longer host the programme, citing an unspecified “internal compliance matter.”

A screenshot of the cancellation notice, shared on Instagram by media personality and politician Dele Momodu, read:
“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 understand that the event is less than 24 hours away, and we deeply apologise for the timing and inconvenience.”

The last-minute withdrawal sparked strong reactions from opposition leaders. Momodu accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating the cancellation through intimidation tactics.

“The harassment of the opposition by a nervous government continues,” he wrote. “The Wells Carlton Hotel management abruptly cancelled the venue for the ADC unveiling, reportedly out of fear of reprisals from APC operatives. But this won’t break the spirit of determined opposition forces ready to challenge the ruling party.”

Salihu Lukman, speaking for People and Passion Consult Ltd, also condemned the hotel’s action in a statement shared by Momodu. He accused the hotel of violating a valid and fully paid contract.

“This is completely unacceptable. The hotel management has no right to sabotage a legally binding agreement. We expect the hotel to honour the full terms of the contract and allow the event to proceed as planned. This is not up for negotiation,” Lukman said.

ATTENTION: Follow 9jaReporters on Instagram for a chance to win ₦100,000 in our Top Fans Challenge!

JOIN NOW to participate and stand a chance to win exclusive prize ons, free airtime, and exciting gifts!

FOLLOW US TODAY! DON’T MISS OUT!

The unveiling was expected to gather a wide array of high-profile political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, former governors Aminu Tambuwal, Sule Lamido, Liyel Imoke, and Sam Egwu.

Others reportedly involved include Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and former Minister Rotimi Amaechi.