Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has accused President and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of using government institutions to frustrate opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku made the allegation on Saturday while reacting to reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was denied access to a public event centre in Abuja where it planned to hold the affirmation of its presidential candidate.

In a statement issued by the Atiku Media Office, the former vice president described the action as a violation of constitutional rights and a sign of growing intolerance toward opposition politics under the current administration.

According to him, preventing the PDP from using the venue infringes on the rights to freedom of association and peaceful assembly guaranteed by Nigeria’s Constitution.

The dispute comes amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 elections, with opposition parties expressing concerns about what they describe as efforts to limit democratic participation and favour the ruling .

Atiku argued that public facilities should be accessible to all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation, accusing the FCT Administration of acting in a partisan manner.

He claimed that the refusal to grant the venue for the PDP event was discriminatory and reflected a broader pattern of interference aimed at weakening opposition parties. He also alleged that both the PDP and the ADC had experienced similar challenges in organising political activities.

The former presidential candidate further pointed to a recent event held in Abuja by another faction of the ADC, noting that it proceeded without restrictions. According to him, the differing treatment raises concerns about selective enforcement of government authority.

Atiku warned that such actions could undermine democratic principles, the rule of law and the credibility of future elections. He maintained that the administration was creating an uneven political environment that favours the ruling party.

The ADC flag bearer also accused the Tinubu administration of deploying state resources and institutions to suppress opposition voices ahead of the next presidential election.

He said Nigerians remain committed to democratic governance, accountability and constitutional rule, insisting that attempts to restrict opposition activities would not succeed.

Atiku called on the FCT Minister to reverse the decision and ensure equal access to public and private facilities for all political parties conducting legitimate political activities.

He also urged civil society organisations, democratic stakeholders and citizens to resist what he described as a growing threat to political pluralism and democratic freedoms.

As of the time of reporting, neither the Presidency nor the FCT Administration had officially responded to the allegations.

The controversy adds to rising political tensions as parties begin positioning themselves for the 2027 general elections, with debates over political freedoms and the conduct of public officials continuing to dominate national discourse.