Wike debunks claims of political bias over Eagle Square access
CHIGOZIE AMADI
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr Nyesom Wike, on Monday refuted allegations that any political party was denied access to the Eagle Square, stressing that no official request had been made for the facility.
Responding to the claims, Wike questioned their authenticity, stating that he had no knowledge of such an incident or even the party involved.
He noted that if the allegation was linked to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), it could be part of a recurring strategy to attract public sympathy.
“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.
The minister clarified that access to Eagle Square is governed by established procedures, which require interested parties to formally apply through the Abuja Investments Company Limited, the body responsible for managing the venue, alongside payment of stipulated fees.
He further explained that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome does not fall under the jurisdiction of the FCT Administration but is controlled by the National Sports Commission.
Wike emphasized that compliance with due process guarantees access, citing previous usage by major political parties.
According to him, both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had adhered to the required procedures when they used the respective venues.
“As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to the Abuja Investments Company Limited.
When the APC used the venue and PDP used the Stadium Velodrome, they complied with the process.
We do not deny anyone access if the rules are followed,” he added.
The Minister, who spoke during an inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects across Abuja, expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, revealing that critical road projects are on track for completion by May 15.
He disclosed that contractors have committed to meeting the deadline, while installation of streetlights across various locations would be concluded before the end of May.
At Gaduwa, the minister said he had ordered the installation of protective mesh along road corridors to prevent encroachment, adding that streetlight works in the area were progressing steadily.
Wike also announced plans to relocate informal sector operators, particularly traders from the Apo Mechanic Village, to a newly developed site in Wassa equipped with essential infrastructure.
He explained that the initiative is designed to enhance the working environment for artisans while fulfilling long-standing commitments made by the administration to support the informal sector.
Addressing concerns over the recent damage to the Kugbo Bus Terminal, Wike described the incident as a natural occurrence beyond human control.
He clarified that the terminal itself did not collapse, noting that only parts of the roofing sheets were affected by strong winds.
According to him, repair works are already in progress and no casualties were recorded.
“The terminal did not collapse. The structure is intact. What happened was that strong winds blew off parts of the roof.
Repairs are ongoing,” Wike said, noting that no lives were lost.
The minister attributed the consistent progress of projects within the FCT to strong collaboration between the government and contractors, supported by the timely settlement of contractual payments.
