Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised alleged attempts to frustrate the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Convention scheduled to hold in Abuja, describing the development as an abuse of power and a threat to democratic freedoms.
Atiku’s reaction follows claims by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, that the management of Rainbow Event Centre was pressured to cancel its booking for the event reportedly slated for today (Tuesday).
Abdullahi had alleged that the pressure came from officials linked to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), warning that the venue risked losing its licence if it proceeded with the booking.
Reacting in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Atiku described the situation as a “shameful and cowardly abuse of public office,” insisting that the ADC had fully complied with all requirements for the use of the facility.
He said the opposition party had paid all necessary fees, signed valid agreements, and broken no law in its preparations for the convention.
According to him, any attempt to stop the event was politically motivated and aimed at undermining the party’s growing influence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Atiku argued that coercing a private business to withdraw services from a legally registered political party amounted to intimidation rather than governance, warning that such actions could damage Nigeria’s democratic reputation.
He further stated that the situation reflects a broader pattern of intolerance towards opposition activity, adding that it poses a risk to citizens’ constitutional rights to free association and political participation.
The former vice president also called on international observers and democratic partners to take note of the development, saying it raises concerns about the state of political freedoms in the country.
Despite the controversy, Atiku maintained that the ADC would proceed with its planned convention, insisting that the party would not be deterred by pressure or intimidation.
“We will not be intimidated. We will not be silenced. We will not bow to this creeping tyranny,” he said.
The remarks come amid heightened political mobilisation by opposition parties as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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