By Agency Report
Delegates from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Tuesday converged at the Rainbow Event Centre, Garki, Abuja for the National Convention of the African Democratic Congress.
The delegates, numbering over 3,000, dressed in colourful attires and bore various party insignia in cheerful mood.
News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that security personnel conducted thorough checks on all delegates before granting them access, as accreditation commenced under the supervision of the Austin Akobundu-led accreditation sub-committee.
Speaking at the venue, the National Organising Secretary, Chinedu Idigo, disclosed that delegates’ allocation across states was determined by each state’s size to ensure equitable representation in the convention proceedings.
Idigo, however, expressed dissatisfaction over the challenges faced by the party in securing a befitting venue for the convention, alleging that several private business owners declined to host the ADC due to what he described as external pressures and threats.
“We wrote to use the Eagle Square but received no response, and our request for the Velodrome (at the National Stadium) was also denied without explanation.
“We approached several venues, including hotels and event centres, but once they realised it was ADC, they declined, citing fear of possible repercussions.
“Even this Rainbow Event Centre initially attempted to cancel after alleged threats, but we insisted on proceeding since payments had already been made,” he stated.
The organising secretary maintained that private business owners would continue to suffer losses if political interference persists.
“I do not understand why businesses in Nigeria cannot operate freely without intimidation, as this situation is causing significant financial losses to private operators,” he said.
Idigo explained that the convention will round off the party’s congresses, ratify a new constitution, and set the stage for the party’s primaries.
NAN
