The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that any political party was denied access to Eagle Square, insisting that no formal application was submitted for the use of the facility.
Click Here to Join Our Whatsapp Channel
Wike, who spoke on Monday, said he was unaware of any request from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the allegations as baseless and an attempt to gain public sympathy.
“Who denied them? 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, such claims are their usual attempt to gain public sympathy,” he said.
However, a letter obtained by our correspondent contradicts the minister’s position, showing that the ADC had formally applied for the use of Eagle Square in Abuja.
The document, dated April 7, 2026, was issued from the Office of the National Organising Secretary of the party and signed by Prince Chinedu Idigo. It was addressed to the FCT Minister, requesting approval to use Eagle Square for the party’s National Convention scheduled for April 14, 2026.
According to the letter, the convention is described as a non-elective gathering expected to bring together delegates, stakeholders, and observers from across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The party cited the suitability of Eagle Square in terms of capacity, accessibility, and security arrangements required for an event of such magnitude. It also assured authorities that all necessary protocols would be strictly followed, including compliance with security guidelines, facility management rules, and restoration of the venue after use.
The letter further stated that the party was prepared to meet all financial obligations and requirements as stipulated by the facility managers, while requesting prompt approval to facilitate smooth planning.
Notably, the document bears an official “Received” stamp dated April 7, 2026, from the Office of the Honourable Minister, suggesting that the application was formally submitted and acknowledged.
Despite this, Wike maintained that access to Eagle Square follows due process through the Abuja Investments Company Limited, which manages the facility.
“As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to the Abuja Investments Company Limited. When the APC used the venue and PDP used the Stadium Velodrome, they complied with the process. We do not deny anyone access if the rules are followed,” he said.
The minister also clarified that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome is not under the Federal Capital Territory Administration but under the Sports Commission.
Wike made the remarks while inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects across Abuja. He expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, noting that major road projects are expected to be completed by May 15, while streetlight installations would be finalised before the end of May.
At Gaduwa, he disclosed that protective mesh is being installed to prevent encroachment on road corridors, while in Wassa, plans are underway to relocate informal sector operators, including traders from Apo Mechanic Village, to a new facility with improved infrastructure.
Addressing reports of windstorm damage at the Kugbo Bus Terminal, the minister said the incident was caused by strong winds, which affected only the roofing sheets. He assured that repairs are ongoing and confirmed that no lives were lost.
“The structure is intact. What happened was that strong winds blew off parts of the roof. Repairs are ongoing,” Wike said.
He attributed the steady progress of projects in the FCT to effective collaboration between the government and contractors, as well as prompt payment of contractual obligations.
