No fewer than 3,000 delegates have converged in Abuja for the ongoing national convention of the African Democratic Congress.
Delegates arrived in colourful and diverse attires, representing all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Security was visibly tight at the venue, with personnel carrying out thorough checks as accreditation commenced.
The exercise was overseen by the accreditation sub-committee led by Austin Akobundu.
Speaking at the event, the party’s National Organising Secretary, Chinedu Idigo, said delegate allocation was based on the size of each state to ensure fair representation.
Idigo, however, raised concerns over the party’s struggle to secure a suitable venue, alleging that several private operators declined to host the convention due to external pressure.
According to him, requests to use the Eagle Square and the Velodrome at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium were either ignored or rejected without explanation.
He added that a number of hotels and event centres also turned down the party after learning about its involvement, citing fears of possible repercussions.
“Even the Rainbow Event Centre initially attempted to cancel after alleged threats, but we insisted on proceeding since payments had already been made,” Idigo said.
The convention is expected to wrap up the party’s congresses, ratify a new constitution, and set the stage for upcoming primary elections, although as of 11am no officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission were sighted at the venue.
