The planned national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), scheduled for April 14, is facing significant uncertainty as logistical setbacks, internal disputes, and ongoing legal battles threaten to derail the exercise.
Speaking on ARISE News, Director of News and Politics Editor Sumner Sambo revealed that the party has encountered multiple obstacles in securing a venue in Abuja.
According to him, key locations including Eagle Square and the velodrome of the National Stadium were denied to the party, while private event centre owners reportedly faced pressure not to host the convention.
Despite these challenges, ADC officials remain resolute. Sambo noted that the party is determined to proceed with the convention, even if it means holding the event in an open field. Journalists, he added, are expected to closely monitor developments as they unfold.
Beyond logistical concerns, the party is also grappling with legal complexities. A case involving former Senate President David Mark is set to be heard at the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
The matter seeks clarity on whether the Federal High Court has jurisdiction over internal party disputes.
Simultaneously, the Federal High Court is expected to sit on the same issue, though it may defer to the apex court’s ruling.
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Sambo further highlighted internal divisions within the party, particularly disputes over leadership positions following recent congresses in states such as Edo and Katsina.
He warned that unresolved disagreements could trigger further litigation and undermine the party’s credibility.
He also pointed to a broader systemic issue affecting Nigeria’s political landscape, arguing that a lack of internal democracy cuts across major parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
While acknowledging that the ADC continues to attract new members, Sambo suggested that dissatisfaction within the party could lead some stakeholders to consider alternative political platforms if the crisis persists beyond mid-May.
He also cautioned the APC against complacency, noting that current political strategies could inadvertently strengthen opposition alliances.
Reflecting on recent electoral outcomes, he described the last general election as closely contested and warned against overconfidence.
Although he commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his political acumen, Sambo noted that public opinion would ultimately determine perceptions of his governance.
As the convention date approaches, uncertainty continues to loom over the ADC, with the coming days expected to play a decisive role in shaping the party’s immediate future.