The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed allegations that any political party was denied access to Eagle Square in Abuja, stating that no formal application had been submitted for the use of the facility.
Wike made the clarification on Monday while addressing journalists during an inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects across the nation’s capital. His comments come amid claims, particularly by members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), that they were prevented from using the venue for political activities.
Responding to the allegations, the minister expressed surprise at the claims, noting that he was unaware of any such development. “Who denied them? I am not aware of any such development, and I don’t even know which party you are referring to,” Wike said.
He further suggested that if the claims were indeed coming from the ADC, they might be part of a broader attempt to gain public sympathy. “If it is the African Democratic Congress, such claims are their usual attempt to gain public sympathy,” he added.
Wike emphasized that access to Eagle Square, one of Nigeria’s most prominent public event venues, is governed by a clearly defined administrative process that applies to all individuals and organizations, including political parties. According to him, no group is granted access without first complying with these established procedures.
He explained that interested parties are required to submit a formal application through the Abuja Investments Company Limited, the government agency responsible for managing Eagle Square and other public facilities within the FCT. In addition to the application, users are also expected to pay the stipulated fees associated with the use of the venue.
“As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to the Abuja Investments Company Limited,” Wike said, reiterating that the absence of such a request makes it impossible for any denial to have occurred.
The minister stressed that the FCT Administration does not discriminate against any political party or organization, adding that access is granted strictly on the basis of compliance with laid-down rules. He cited examples of other major political parties that have previously used similar facilities without any issues.
“When the All Progressives Congress (APC) used the venue and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) used the Stadium Velodrome, they complied with the process. We do not deny anyone access if the rules are followed,” he stated.
Wike also addressed confusion surrounding the use of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome, clarifying that the facility does not fall under the jurisdiction of the FCT Administration. Instead, he said, it is managed by the National Sports Commission, and any request to use the venue must be directed to the appropriate authority.
“The Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome is not under the FCT. It is managed by the Sports Commission,” he explained, noting that this distinction is important to avoid misdirected claims or misunderstandings about responsibility.
The controversy over access to Eagle Square highlights the increasing political activities and preparations ahead of future elections, with parties seeking prominent venues in Abuja to host rallies, conventions, and other engagements. Eagle Square, in particular, remains a highly sought-after location due to its centrality and symbolic significance in national events.
Observers say Wike’s remarks are aimed at reinforcing transparency and adherence to administrative procedures, while also pushing back against what he perceives as politically motivated accusations.
Beyond addressing the allegations, the FCT minister also used the opportunity to provide updates on ongoing infrastructure projects within Abuja. During his inspection tour, Wike expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work being carried out by contractors across various project sites.
He disclosed that several key road projects are nearing completion, with contractors assuring the government that work will be finalized by mid-May. “The contractors have assured us that road works will be completed by May 15, while streetlight installations will be finalized before the end of May,” he said.
According to Wike, the timely completion of these projects is part of the administration’s broader effort to improve infrastructure and enhance the overall quality of life for residents of the Federal Capital Territory. He noted that the government remains committed to ensuring that projects are delivered on schedule and meet required standards.
The minister’s inspection tour covered multiple sites, where he assessed progress and interacted with contractors and project managers. He reiterated the importance of accountability and efficiency in public works, warning that contractors must adhere strictly to agreed timelines and specifications.
Wike’s dual focus on addressing political concerns and overseeing infrastructure development reflects the multifaceted responsibilities of the FCT Administration. While managing political sensitivities in the capital, the administration is also tasked with delivering critical services and maintaining the city’s status as Nigeria’s administrative hub.
As political activities intensify in the lead-up to future elections, issues surrounding access to public venues are likely to remain in the spotlight. However, Wike’s insistence on due process suggests that the FCT Administration will continue to enforce existing regulations without exception.
In conclusion, the minister’s statement seeks to dispel allegations of bias or exclusion, reaffirming that all political parties are free to use public facilities like Eagle Square—provided they follow the established procedures. At the same time, his update on infrastructure projects underscores the administration’s ongoing efforts to develop Abuja and meet the expectations of its residents.
