Wike Bans ‘Unrecognized Party Factions’ from Abuja Event Centers and Hotels in 2027

By Omeiza Ajayi, ABUJA

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has instructed owners of event centres and hotels in Abuja to deny access to any political party faction that has not been recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The directive warns that properties that do not comply may have their title documents revoked.

The order was issued on Friday by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. It comes as factional disputes within major political parties intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Owners of Event Centres and Hotels in particular must ensure that they only deal with Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognised leadership of political parties in respect of the use of their facilities, and proper records of transactions must be kept,” Olayinka said.

The instruction effectively gives venue owners—and, by extension, the FCTA—authority over which political groups may legally assemble in the capital. Critics view the move as an attempt to influence the balance of power among factions competing for control of parties already embroiled in leadership disputes.

Wike’s administration characterised the measure as a security precaution, stating that facilities would be monitored to prevent gatherings that could disrupt the peace of the nation’s capital.

“Failure to comply with this directive will result in revocation of the title documents of such properties,” Olayinka warned.

The directive arrives at a critical time, as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, and other opposition groups are engaged in parallel leadership and court battles over which faction holds legitimate control—contests in which INEC recognition has become decisive.

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