Opposition politicians kick as Abuja hotel cancels booking for ADC unveiling venue

• Lukman accused the hotel of cancelling due to APC pressure and political intimidation fears.
• New venue for the ADC unveiling secured at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.

The unveiling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition was thrown into confusion on Wednesday after a sudden venue cancellation.

The event, initially slated for the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments, Asokoro, Abuja, was abruptly called off by the hotel.

Organisers said they were informed of the cancellation just hours before the start of the programme.

A screenshot of the hotel’s notice, shared on Instagram by media personality and politician, Dele Momodu, cited an “internal compliance matter”.

“Dear Esteemed Patron, Thank you once again for choosing the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments. We sincerely regret to inform you that due to what has just come to our attention, we are unable to proceed with hosting your scheduled event,” the hotel’s message read.

“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 head of People and Passion Consult Ltd, Salihu Lukman, condemned the hotel’s decision, describing it as a breach of agreement.

“The intimidation of opposition by a jittery government continues as the booking of a venue for the unveiling of the adopted party, ADC, by the coalition has been unilaterally and suddenly cancelled by the Management of the hotel due to what insiders described as fear of reprisals from APC operatives,” he said.

“But this will not dampen the daredevil determination of opposition forces who are poised to hotly challenge the ruling party.”

“This is unacceptable. Your management has no right to unilaterally sabotage a contract validly and legally agreed to and fully paid for,” he added.

“You must meet the terms of the contract fully by allowing the event to hold with full compliments of all the services agreed to. This is not negotiable.”

The coalition has now moved the event to the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.