The African Action Congress says granting its request would demonstrate fairness and equal treatment of political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The African Action Congress (AAC), the party fielding Omoyele Sowore as its presidential candidate, has asked President Bola Tinubu to approve the use of the Presidential Villa in Abuja for the inauguration of its Presidential Campaign Council.

In a letter dated October 21, 2026, the opposition party proposed November 11 for the event as part of its preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Beyond requesting the use of Aso Rock as the venue, the party also asked the Federal Government to provide food, drinks and other logistical support for approximately 5,000 participants expected to attend from within Nigeria and abroad.

AAC Cites Fairness and Equal Treatment

The party said its request was based on the principles of multiparty democracy, political inclusiveness and equal treatment of political parties.

According to the AAC, its request followed the reported inauguration of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja on October 14.

The party argued that public institutions should serve all Nigerians without discrimination based on political affiliation.

It maintained that granting the request would demonstrate the Presidency’s commitment to fairness and equal access to government facilities.

The letter was signed by the party’s National Secretary, Oshiokhue Philip Ikpeminoghena, and shared by Sowore on social media.

Presidency Yet to Confirm Approval

The AAC has asked the Presidency to consider its request favourably and provide details of the procedures and conditions governing the proposed event.

However, reports available as of October 22 had not established that Tinubu or the Presidency had approved the request.

It is also important to distinguish the request to use the venue from the separate demand for food, drinks and logistical assistance. Reports of the APC’s inauguration at the State House do not, on their own, establish that the government provided the same support now being requested by the opposition party.

Sowore Prepares for 2027 Presidential Contest

Sowore, a journalist, human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, has contested previous presidential elections under the AAC platform.

His party is preparing for another presidential contest in 2027, when Tinubu and other political contenders are expected to seek the support of Nigerian voters.

Whether the AAC will be allowed to hold its proposed event at the Presidential Villa remains uncertain pending an official response.

The Presidency’s decision could also fuel further discussion about equal treatment of political parties and the use of public facilities for political activities.

Utelnova will continue to follow developments surrounding the request and the preparations for the 2027 general elections.