Dare Babalola
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed allegations that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was denied access to Eagle Square for its proposed national convention.
The minister insisted that no formal request was submitted to the relevant authorities.
Wike made the clarification on Monday while speaking with journalists after inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects across the Federal Capital Territory.
He challenged those making the claim to provide evidence of any application reportedly submitted for approval, describing the allegation as misleading and unfounded.
“I am not aware of any such development, and I don’t even know which party you are referring to. If it is the ADC, then such claims are often attempts to gain public sympathy. As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to my office or any relevant authority for the use of Eagle Square,” Wike said.
The minister explained that Eagle Square remains open for use by political parties and organisations, provided they follow due process and meet all administrative requirements.
He noted that access to the venue is strictly governed by established procedures, which include formal application and payment, stressing that no group is exempt from the rules.
According to him, both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) had previously used the facility after complying with the same requirements.
Wike added that the FCT Administration does not deny any group access to public facilities as long as proper procedures are followed, pointing out that such engagements also generate revenue for government.
On infrastructure development, the minister expressed satisfaction with ongoing projects across the territory, noting that contractors have pledged to deliver key road works by mid-May, while streetlight installations are expected to be completed before the end of the month.
During inspections in Gaduwa, he directed that protective barriers be installed along road corridors to prevent encroachment by traders.
He also visited Wassa, where informal sector operators, particularly mechanics, are being relocated to a purpose-built facility. He described the project as part of long-standing efforts to provide structured working environments for artisans.
The contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, according to him, has committed to completing the project by the end of May, while arrangements are being made for the relocation process.
On project commissioning, Wike said the volume of completed works may make it difficult for the President to personally inaugurate all projects, suggesting that some may be handled by designated representatives.
Responding to reports of damage at the Kugbo bus terminal following a storm, he clarified that the structure did not collapse, explaining that only parts of the roofing were affected by strong winds.
He maintained that the building remains structurally sound and attributed the incident to extreme weather conditions, adding that repair works are already underway and no sanctions will be imposed on the contractor.
