JUST IN: ADC festive frenzy, accreditation chaos as ADC convention begins
Having secured the use of the Rainbow event centre, the national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) kicked off dramatically in Abuja, blending celebration with confusion as a chaotic
Having secured the use of the Rainbow event centre, the national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) kicked off dramatically in Abuja, blending celebration with confusion as a chaotic accreditation process slowed proceedings and left hundreds of delegates stranded outside the main arena.
From the early hours, the venue swelled with party faithful and political heavyweights from across the country, transforming the grounds into a carnival of colours and ambition.
Banners of preferred candidates and power blocs dominated every available space, as supporters loudly declared loyalty ahead of what is expected to be a decisive gathering for the party’s future.
Despite the electrifying atmosphere, the mood inside the main auditorium told a different story.
The hall remained partially empty, not for lack of turnout, but due to the bottlenecks and delays at accreditation points, where frustrated delegates struggled to gain access after hours of waiting.
Outside and within the complex, clusters of party members turned the delay into an opportunity, exchanging pleasantries, striking alliances, and engaging in intense political networking.
Handshakes, back-patting, and hushed strategy talks defined the pre-event mood, underscoring the high stakes of the convention.
But amid the celebration and politicking, a troubling incident cast a shadow over the gathering.
Former lawmaker, Dino Melaye, interrupted the buzz with a public announcement that an envoy’s telephone had been “mistakenly picked,” quickly clarifying that it was not stolen.
In a bid to recover the device, he appealed for its return, even offering a reward.
He warned that such incidents reflect poorly on both the party and the nation, stressing that “the theft is a negative on the image of the party and the country.
Members of the Plateau State delegation were also seen urging security officials to eject another delegation led by a woman they claimed was not an authentic member of the party, along with her team.
The mix of festivity, disorder, and controversy has set the tone for a convention already drawing intense attention, as expectations remain high over the outcomes that will emerge once proceedings fully get underway.
