Wike dismisses ADC claim of blocking Eagle Square, inspects ongoing Abuja projects

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Monday dismissed claims that any political party was denied access to the Eagle Square, stating that no formal request had been submitted for its use.

Speaking during an inspection of ongoing projects in Abuja, Wike said he was unaware of any such development, particularly allegations involving the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which he described as attempts 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 African Democratic Congress (ADC), such claims are their usual attempt to gain public sympathy. 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.

He explained that access to the Eagle Square is subject to due process, including a formal application through the Abuja Investments Company Limited, which manages the facility, as well as payment of the required fees.

The minister also clarified that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome is not under the control of the FCT Administration but falls within the jurisdiction of the Sports Commission.

Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress of key infrastructure projects, revealing that major road works are expected to be completed by May 15, while streetlight installations would be finalised before the end of the month.

At Wassa, the minister said the administration was preparing to relocate informal sector operators, including traders from the Apo Mechanic Village, to a new facility equipped with the necessary infrastructure.

Addressing reports of damage to the Kugbo Bus Terminal, Wike attributed the incident to a windstorm, stating that only roofing sheets were affected and repairs were already underway, with no casualties recorded.