“There Were Attempts To Lock Out ADC Members From Convention Venue” – Dino Melaye

By Ayodele Oni 

A member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) convention planning committee, Dino Melaye, has revealed that there were attempts to lock out party members from the proposed venue of the national convention in Abuja after payment has been made.

He, however, declared that no force can prevent the party from holding its national convention, insisting organisers have a valid contract and completed payment for the venue.

Melaye spoke on Tuesday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, amid controversy over the venue for the party’s convention.

The ADC had earlier raised concerns that attempts were being made to frustrate the event after difficulties in securing a location for the gathering.

According to Melaye, organisers were allegedly asked to leave the premises on Monday, while there were also moves to shut the gates and stop preparations.

He said the committee rejected the demand, stressing that the party had entered into a lawful agreement with the management of the facility.

“I have that information as a member of the planning committee and the chairman of the protocol committee, and not only we were even asked to leave yesterday, they wanted to shut the gates.

“But we insisted, and said we are not going to leave because we have a contract duly signed with this place, and we paid fully,” he said.

The former senator added that all payment records and contractual documents were intact, making any attempt to eject the party unjustifiable.

“We have receipt of payments. We have duly signed contracts. The most important thing is that at the end of the day we are here, and we hold our convention here,” he stated.

In a defiant tone, Melaye said the party would proceed with the exercise regardless of opposition.

“Nobody will stop us. After a contract, a proper contract, with the owners of this place, and after payment and receipt issued, no battalion would have moved us away from here today. 

“So convention is going to hold. The exercise will hold. ADC is entrenched, and we are kicking out APC.”

His remarks come as political activities ahead of the 2027 general election continue to gather momentum, with opposition parties intensifying efforts to build new alliances and strengthen their structures nationwide