The much-anticipated unveiling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a coalition platform for Nigeria’s opposition experienced a significant disruption on Wednesday when the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Asokoro, Abuja, abruptly cancelled the event just hours before it was scheduled to begin.

The event was set to formally announce the ADC as the opposition’s political vehicle to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

Organisers, however, received a notification early Wednesday morning from the hotel stating that the booking could no longer be honoured due to an “internal compliance matter”.

A message shared by media personality and politician Dele Momodu on Instagram revealed the hotel’s communication: “Dear Esteemed Patron… due to an internal compliance matter that has just come to our attention, we are unable to proceed with hosting your scheduled event… 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 sudden cancellation has elicited strong reactions from opposition figures. Momodu accused the ruling government of interference, alleging that fear of backlash from APC operatives influenced the hotel’s decision.

He described the move as “intimidation of opposition by a jittery government” but vowed it would not dampen the opposition’s resolve to challenge the APC.

Salihu Lukman, representing People and Passion Consult Ltd, the event organisers, condemned the hotel’s action as a breach of contract.

Lukman stated, “This is unacceptable. Your management has no right to unilaterally sabotage a contract validly and legally agreed to and fully paid for. You must meet the terms of the contract fully by allowing the event to be held with full compliments of all the services agreed to. This is not negotiable.”

The unveiling was expected to bring together prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, and former governors Aminu Tambuwal, Sule Lamido, Liyel Imoke, and Sam Egwu.

Others reportedly involved are Labour Party’s Peter Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and ex-Minister Rotimi Amaechi.