Accreditation is currently underway at the national convention of the African Democratic Congress, taking place at the Rainbow Event Centre.
Over 3,000 delegates have converged at the venue, arriving from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, reflecting the party’s nationwide presence and diversity.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, security operatives carried out strict screening procedures before allowing delegates into the premises. The accreditation process is being overseen by a sub-committee led by Austin Akobundu.
Speaking on the process, the party’s National Organising Secretary, Chinedu Idigo, noted that delegate distribution across states was carefully structured based on size to ensure fair representation.
However, Idigo raised concerns about difficulties the party faced in securing a suitable venue for the event. He alleged that several private establishments declined to host the convention due to external pressure and fear of backlash.
He revealed that requests to use major venues, including Eagle Square and the Velodrome at the National Stadium, were either ignored or rejected without explanation. According to him, even some hotels and event centres backed out once they realised the booking was for the ADC.
Idigo further claimed that the current venue initially attempted to withdraw after alleged threats but proceeded after the party insisted, having already made payments.
The convention is expected to round off the party’s internal congresses, ratify a revised constitution, and lay the groundwork for upcoming primary elections.
- NAN