In a dramatic turn of events, the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Asokoro, Abuja, has abruptly cancelled a high-profile political event organized by a coalition of opposition leaders to unveil the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as their unified platform to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.
The event, scheduled for Wednesday, July 2, was expected to feature prominent political figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, former governors Aminu Tambuwal, Sule Lamido, and Peter Obi, among others. However, just hours before the program, organizers received a notice from the hotel citing an “internal compliance matter” as the reason for the cancellation.
“We sincerely regret to inform you that due to an internal compliance matter that has just come to our attention, we are unable to proceed with hosting your scheduled event,” read the hotel’s message, which was shared publicly by media personality and politician Dele Momodu.
The cancellation has sparked outrage among opposition leaders and civil society groups, who allege political interference and intimidation. Salihu Lukman, speaking on behalf of People and Passion Consult Ltd, condemned the hotel’s decision as a breach of contract and an affront to democratic principles.
“This is unacceptable. Your management has no right to unilaterally sabotage a contract validly and legally agreed to and fully paid for,” Lukman stated. “This will not dampen the daredevil determination of opposition forces who are poised to hotly challenge the ruling party.”
Despite the setback, the coalition swiftly relocated the event to the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, where the unveiling of the ADC leadership and platform proceeded as planned.