The planned unveiling of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition suffered a setback on Wednesday following a last-minute cancellation by the event venue.
The event was scheduled for the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Asokoro, Abuja.
However, hours before the programme, organisers were informed that the hotel would no longer host the event.
According to a screenshot of the cancellation notice, shared on Instagram by Dele Momodu, media personality and politician, the hotel’s management said the cancellation was due to an “internal compliance matter”.
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“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 notice reads.
“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.”
Salihu Lukman, speaking on behalf of People and Passion Consult Ltd, condemned the hotel’s action and accused it of violating a binding agreement.
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“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.
“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.”
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The coalition has now secured another venue — the Yar’Adua Centre — for the event.
