Abuja, Nigeria – June 23, 2025 — The African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition has announced a new venue for the unveiling of its political platform after the Wells Carlton Hotel in Abuja abruptly cancelled the event, less than 24 hours before it was scheduled to take place.

In a statement signed by ADC’s Deputy National Secretary, Nkem Ukandu, the party confirmed that the event will now hold at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre by 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday. The gathering is expected to draw members of the National Working Committee, National Executive Committee, Board of Trustees, and other high-level stakeholders.

“Please note that attendance is self-sponsored,” the statement clarified.

Political Interference Alleged

The sudden withdrawal by Wells Carlton Hotel has raised suspicions of political interference, especially among opposition leaders. The hotel cited an unspecified “internal compliance matter” in a statement shared by media personality and politician Dele Momodu.

“We are fully aware that the event is less than 24 hours away, and we deeply apologise for the timing and inconvenience this may cause,” the hotel’s statement read.

The cancellation has triggered widespread criticism from opposition figures, who view the move as an attempt to frustrate growing momentum around the newly forming coalition. Some have accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using backdoor tactics to disrupt legitimate political assembly.

Coalition of Heavyweights

The ADC is emerging as a potential unifying platform for a wide-ranging opposition alliance ahead of the 2027 general elections. The coalition is reportedly backed by a formidable array of political figures, including:

• Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar
• Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi
• Former Senate President David Mark
• Ex-Interior Minister and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola
• Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai

If formally endorsed by these heavyweights, the coalition could represent the most significant opposition realignment since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.

Tensions Rise Ahead of 2027

The unfolding drama comes amid a tense political climate, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over economic hardship, rising insecurity, and questions around governance under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Observers see the emerging opposition front as an attempt to consolidate fragmented political efforts under a single banner capable of challenging the APC’s dominance.

The unveiling at the Yar’Adua Centre is expected to outline the coalition’s structure, strategic goals, and timeline for national mobilisation.

As events unfold, all eyes remain on Abuja to see whether this alliance can hold—and whether it can mount a credible challenge in the high-stakes race to 2027.