Omoyele Sowore, the presidential candidate of the [African Action Congress](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_Action_Congress), reiterated on Thursday that his party’s request to stage the inauguration of its 2027 Presidential Campaign Council at the Presidential Villa in Abuja is a matter of equal treatment for all political parties. The appeal, made during an event organised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, mirrors the venue usage by the ruling [All Progressives Congress](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Progressives_Congress).
**Key details**
- The AAC sent a formal letter dated 21 October to President [Bola Tinubu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bola_Tinubu) asking for permission to use Aso Rock for the ceremony scheduled on 11 November 2026.
- The request also covered provision of food, drinks and logistical support for attendees.
- AAC National Secretary Oshiokhai Ikpeminioghena justified the appeal on the grounds of multiparty democracy, political inclusiveness and equal treatment.
- APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru responded critically, questioning the AAC’s electoral viability.
- Sowore dismissed the idea of joining any opposition “rainbow coalition”, warning it would dissolve after the 2027 polls.
**Why did the AAC target Aso Rock?**
The party argues that because the APC routinely utilises the Presidential Villa for its own political gatherings, opposition groups should be granted the same privilege. “We asked to use Aso Rock because the APC uses Aso Rock to do political party events. So we are saying, as a matter of right, since Aso Rock is our own, other political parties must be granted the opportunity to use Aso Rock the way APC uses Aso Rock,” Sowore said.
**What does the AAC hope to achieve?**
According to the October 21 letter, granting the venue would signal the Presidency’s commitment to fairness and demonstrate that public institutions are accessible to every Nigerian, regardless of party affiliation. The party also highlighted the broader economic and social hardships confronting citizens, stating, “They have brought sorrow, and honestly, things are hard for the people of this country.”
**How did the APC react?**
APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru publicly challenged Sowore’s request, suggesting the AAC lacks the electoral strength to merit such accommodations. He also used the occasion to critique the AAC’s candidate and overall campaign prospects.
**What is Sowore’s stance on coalition politics?**
When asked about joining a proposed opposition alliance ahead of the 2027 elections, Sowore firmly declined, asserting, “I don’t want to be part of your coalition because your rainbow coalition is going to die after 2027.”
The debate underscores ongoing tensions over the use of state facilities for partisan events and reflects broader concerns about political equity in Nigeria’s upcoming electoral cycle.