By Atoyebi Nike
The African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition has announced a last-minute change of venue for the official unveiling of its political platform, now set to take place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja by 2:00 p.m. Wednesday.
The decision followed a sudden cancellation by the Wells Carlton Hotel, which was initially billed to host the high-stakes political event.
In a statement signed by ADC’s Deputy National Secretary, Nkem Ukandu, the party said all key members of the National Working Committee, National Executive Committee, Board of Trustees, and other stakeholders are expected at the new venue. Attendance, however, remains self-sponsored.
The Wells Carlton management cited an ambiguous “internal compliance matter” as the reason for pulling out, issuing a public apology just hours before the event, a move that caught organizers and attendees off guard.
“We are fully aware that the event is less than 24 hours away, and we deeply apologize for the timing and inconvenience this may cause,” the hotel said in a statement shared by media figure and politician Dele Momodu.
The abrupt cancellation has fueled suspicions of political pressure, with opposition figures accusing the APC-led government of attempting to suppress the launch of what is emerging as a formidable anti-establishment bloc ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The ADC is fast becoming the central vehicle for a broad opposition alliance, reportedly backed by political heavyweights including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, ex-Senate President David Mark, and former governors Rauf Aregbesola and Nasir El-Rufai.
The coalition has signaled its intent to challenge the ruling party through a unified platform, promoting a common agenda focused on democratic governance, economic revival, and national reconciliation.
Despite the disruption, ADC leaders say the unveiling will proceed as planned—albeit from a different podium.
