Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed allegations by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) that it was denied access to Abuja’s Eagle Square, describing the claims as baseless and politically motivated.
Speaking on Monday during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in the capital city, Wike said no group is barred from using the facility as long as proper procedures are followed. According to him, the ADC had not submitted any formal application for the venue, making its claims unfounded.
He emphasized that Eagle Square remains accessible to all political parties and organizations through due process, which includes applying via the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) and paying the required fees.
“We do not deny access; these events actually generate revenue for the government,” Wike said. “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.”
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The minister further clarified that while Eagle Square falls under the management of the FCT Administration through AICL, the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome is controlled by the National Sports Commission (NSC), not the FCTA.
Addressing concerns over the recent damage at the Kugbo Bus Terminal, Wike reassured residents that the structure remains intact despite a windstorm that affected parts of the facility. He explained that the roofing sheets were blown off due to the terminal’s elevated location but stressed that the core structure was not compromised.
“There was no collapse, and no lives were lost. Repairs are already underway,” he said, urging the public to disregard reports suggesting otherwise.
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On infrastructure development, Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress of various projects across the FCT. He announced that ongoing road works are expected to be completed by May 15, while the installation of streetlights will be finalized by May 31.
The minister also inspected the Wassa artisan village, a purpose-built facility designed to relocate mechanics and other informal sector operators into a more organized environment. He noted that the project fulfills promises made by previous administrations but left unimplemented.
“Successive administrations have promised this relocation, but we are finally fulfilling that commitment,” Wike stated.
He added that the government is currently working out the modalities for relocating artisans into the new site, attributing the steady progress of projects to a “mutual commitment” between contractors and the government, where timely delivery is matched with prompt payment.
Wike’s remarks come amid heightened political tensions and public scrutiny of infrastructure in the FCT, as his administration continues to push forward with development initiatives across Abuja.
