On Monday, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, dismissed claims that he denied the African Democratic Congress (ADC) the use of Eagle Square for its proposed national convention.
The Minister, who spoke in Abuja after inspecting some road projects, said that the claims by the party’s factional leaders were baseless, saying no party has formally applied to his administration to use any public space.
“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,” Wike said.
He explained that the use of Eagle Square is subject to due process, which includes a formal application through the Abuja Investments Company Limited, which is in charge of the facility and payment of required fees.
The Minister also pointed out that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome is not under the Federal Capital Territory Administration, but the Sports Commission.
“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.
On the ongoing projects, the Minister stated that he had gotten commitment from the contractors who assured him of early completion by Mag.
“The contractors have assured us that road works will be completed by May 15, while streetlight installations will be finalised before the end of May,” he said.
The minister also disclosed that at Gaduwa, he had directed the installation of protective mesh to prevent encroachment on road corridors, while works on streetlights were progressing.
At Wassa, Wike said the administration was set to relocate informal sector operators, particularly Apo Mechanic Village Traders, to a new facility equipped with necessary infrastructure.
“This project is aimed at improving the working conditions of artisans and fulfilling long-standing promises to the informal sector,” he stated.
