DSS, Police Mount Heavy Security At ADC National Convention

The Department of State Services (DSS) along with the Nigerian Police Force is currently overseeing the Rainbow Event Centre, where the national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is taking place in Abuja.

As reported by journalists, the security teams are performing extensive inspections on delegates prior to granting them entry.

An estimated 3,000 delegates are anticipated to take part in the election of the party's National Working Committee (NWC), which will manage the party's activities for the next four years.

Security vehicles were positioned at key areas, staffed by law enforcement officials.

Members of the press were also required to undergo detailed security assessments before gaining permission to enter the event space.

In addition, a member of the ADC Convention Planning Committee, Dino Melaye, has declared that no external forces will prevent the party from holding its national convention.

Melaye asserted that the party had a legitimate agreement and had completed payment for the location where the event is set to occur.

The former senator made these remarks on Tuesday during a segment on Arise Television’s Morning Show, amidst claims that the party was encountering challenges in securing a venue for the convention.

He stated that there were attempts to obstruct the event from taking place, including efforts to close the gates of the venue and pressure the organizers to leave.

Melaye asserted that the planning committee opposed this action, emphasizing that the party had met all contractual requirements with the venue's owners.

He mentioned, “As a member of the planning committee and the chairman of the protocol committee, I have this information. Not only were we asked to depart yesterday, but they also attempted to lock the gates.

“However, we maintained our position and refused to leave because we have a properly signed contract with this venue, and we have made full payment.”

Melaye indicated that the party holds receipts and various documents to validate that they had properly secured the venue.

He continued, “We have payment receipts. We have contracts that are fully signed. Importantly, we are here today to conduct our convention.

“No one can prevent us. After establishing a proper agreement with the venue owners, along with payment and receipt issuance, no army could have displaced us from here today.”

Melaye also conveyed his assurance in the ADC's rising prominence, stating that the party is set on confronting the ruling All Progressives Congress.

“The convention will proceed. The event will take place. ADC is firmly established, and we are determined to remove the APC,” he emphasized.