The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Monday dismissed claims that any political party was denied the use of Eagle Square, insisting that no formal application was submitted.
“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 access to Eagle Square is subject to due process, which includes a formal application through the Abuja Investments Company Limited, the agency in charge of managing 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 jurisdiction of the FCT Administration but falls under the Sports Commission.
“As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to the Abuja Investments Company Limited. 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 added.
Wike spoke during an inspection of ongoing projects in Abuja, where he expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, noting that key road projects would be completed by May 15.
“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 further disclosed that at Gaduwa, he had directed the installation of protective mesh to prevent encroachment on road corridors, while streetlight works were progressing steadily.
At Wassa, Wike said the administration is set to relocate informal sector operators, particularly traders from the Apo Mechanic Village, to a new facility equipped with modern infrastructure.
“This project is aimed at improving the working conditions of artisans and fulfilling long-standing promises to the informal sector,” he stated.
Addressing reports of windstorm damage at the Kugbo Bus Terminal, Wike described the incident as a natural occurrence beyond human control, clarifying that only parts of the roofing were affected and are already being repaired.
“The terminal did not collapse. The structure is intact. Strong winds only blew off sections of the roof, and repairs are ongoing,” he said, noting that no lives were lost.
Wike attributed the steady progress of projects across the FCT to effective collaboration between the government and contractors, backed by prompt payment of contractual obligations.