The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that it was denied access to Eagle Square, insisting that no political party has been blocked from using the facility provided due process is followed.
Wike made the clarification on Monday in Abuja during an inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects across the capital.
He described the ADC’s claims as “unfounded,” adding that they were attempts to attract public sympathy.
“Who denied them? I am not aware of any such development… If it is the African Democratic Congress, such claims are their usual attempt to gain public sympathy,” he said.
The minister explained that Eagle Square remains open for use by all groups, stressing that approval is strictly based on formal application and payment of prescribed fees through the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), which manages the facility.
He noted that events held at the venue also serve as revenue generation for the government.
According to him, no official request had been received from the parties making the allegation.
Wike further clarified that alternative venues such as the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome fall under the National Sports Commission and not the FCT Administration.
“As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to the Abuja Investments Company Limited,” he said, adding that both the APC and PDP had previously used the venues by following due process.
On concerns surrounding the Kugbo Bus Terminal, the minister also addressed reports of structural damage following a recent windstorm.
He explained that the incident affected roofing sheets due to the building’s elevated location, but maintained that the structure itself remains intact.
Wike assured that repair works were already ongoing and urged the public to disregard claims of a collapse, noting that no lives were lost in the incident.
He also disclosed that several key infrastructure projects across the FCT were progressing steadily, with road construction expected to be completed by May 15 and streetlight installations by May 31.
During the inspection, Wike visited the Wassa artisan site, a relocation hub designed to accommodate mechanics and informal sector workers.
He said the project marked the fulfilment of long-standing promises by successive administrations to provide a permanent site for artisans operating in unauthorized spaces.
According to him, government is finalising arrangements for the relocation process, while crediting the pace of ongoing projects to improved coordination between contractors and timely government payments.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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