Tension and discomfort marked the convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abuja on Tuesday, as a failure in the venue’s cooling system left delegates battling intense heat.
The gathering, now being held at the Rainbow Event Centre, was relocated at the last minute after the party was unable to secure its originally planned sites, including Eagle Square and the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
Compounding the situation, the party’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, alleged that there were efforts to interfere with the new venue arrangement, raising suspicions of deliberate disruption.
No Retreat, No Surrender
Despite the setbacks, former senator Dino Melaye remained defiant, insisting that the convention would proceed regardless of the circumstances.
He stressed that the party had fulfilled all financial and contractual obligations for the venue but was still encountering obstacles, including restricted access to key facilities like the central air conditioning system.
According to Melaye, attempts were underway to resolve the cooling issue, while temporary solutions—such as deploying electric fans—were being introduced to provide some relief for attendees.
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He reiterated the party’s determination to carry on with the event, making it clear that no amount of inconvenience or interference would halt the convention.
“We have paid and completed all agreements for this venue, yet we are struggling to access basic facilities like the air conditioning,” he said. “But regardless of the situation—even if we have to hold this in the open—the convention will go on. Nothing will stop us today.”