The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that the party was denied access to Eagle Square in Abuja.
Speaking on Monday during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in the FCT, Wike described the claims as baseless and politically motivated, insisting they were merely aimed at attracting public sympathy.
According to the minister, no official request had been submitted by the ADC or any other group complaining about being blocked from using the venue.
Wike explained that Eagle Square is available to all organizations and political parties, provided they follow the required procedures and pay the stipulated fees.
“We do not deny access. In fact, these events generate revenue for the government. Who denied them? I am not aware of any such development. If it is the ADC, such claims are their usual attempt to gain public sympathy,” he said.
He further stated that the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), the agency responsible for managing Eagle Square, handles all applications and approvals for the use of the facility.
Wike also clarified that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome is not under the control of the FCT Administration, but rather the National Sports Commission (NSC).
“As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to the Abuja Investments Company Limited. When the APC used the venue and the PDP used the Stadium Velodrome, they complied with the process. We do not deny anyone access if the rules are followed,” he added.
Meanwhile, the minister addressed growing public concerns over the reported structural failure at the Kugbo Bus Terminal. He explained that a recent windstorm damaged the roofing sheets of the terminal due to its elevated location, but maintained that the main structure remains intact.
He confirmed that repair works have already commenced and urged residents to ignore reports suggesting the terminal collapsed, stressing that no casualty was recorded.
On the progress of ongoing infrastructure projects, Wike expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and announced that road construction across project sites is expected to be completed by May 15, while streetlight installations will be concluded by May 31.
The minister also visited the Wassa artisan site, a newly developed facility intended to permanently relocate mechanics and informal sector workers who have operated for years without a proper designated location.
He noted that previous administrations had repeatedly promised the relocation, but said the current government is now set to deliver on that commitment.
“Successive administrations have promised this relocation, but we are finally fulfilling that commitment,” Wike said.
He added that the government is currently finalizing plans for moving artisans into the facility and attributed the speed of project delivery to effective cooperation between contractors and the government, particularly through prompt payment for completed work.
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