ADC convention: Obi, Amaechi, Tambuwal meet at David Mark’s residence + Video

Prominent opposition figures including former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and ex-Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi, met at the residence of the embattled National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, for a strategic briefing.

The closed-door meeting took place on Tuesday on the sidelines of the ADC national convention currently holding in Abuja.

According to available information, the briefing focused on final preparations and coordination.

Other notable attendees included former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal, party chieftains Hajia Naja’atu Mohammed, and Mohammed Hayatu-Deen.

News Agency of Nigeria had reported that no fewer than 3,000 delegates arrived at the Rainbow Event Centre in Garki, Abuja.

The delegates, dressed in colourful attire, were drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, showcasing unity and diversity within party ranks.

Security personnel conducted thorough checks on all delegates before granting them access, as accreditation commenced under the supervision of the accreditation sub-committee chaired by Austin Akobundu.

Speaking, the party’s National Organising Secretary, Chinedu Idigo, expressed dissatisfaction over the challenges faced by the party in securing a befitting venue.

He alleged 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.

“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.

According to Idigo, the convention will conclude the party’s congresses, ratify a new constitution, and set the stage for the party’s primaries.