The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Monday threw down a challenge to the African Democratic Congress, asking the opposition party to produce evidence of any formal request to use the Eagle Square for its planned national convention.
Wike dismissed allegations that authorities barred the party from accessing the venue, insisting that no application was submitted to his office or any relevant government agency.
Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja, the minister described the claims as baseless and an attempt to win public sympathy.
He maintained that Eagle Square remains accessible to all organisations that comply with laid-down procedures.
“If any group claims it was denied access, let them present proof of a duly submitted and acknowledged application,” Wike said.
The minister’s position follows accusations by the ADC that it was denied approval to use both Eagle Square and the Velodrome of the National Stadium for its convention scheduled for April 14.
The party, through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, alleged that its requests were ignored, forcing it to relocate the event to the Rainbow Event Centre in Abuja.
However, Wike countered the claim, stating that no official request was received.
“Who denied them? I am not aware of any such request. If it is the ADC, this is their usual strategy to attract public sympathy,” he said.
He added that other political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress, had previously used the venue after fulfilling all necessary requirements, including payment of prescribed fees.
“We do not shut out any group. Once due process is followed, access is granted. These events even generate revenue for the government,” he noted.
On a separate issue, the minister refuted reports that the Kugbo Bus Terminal had collapsed, clarifying that only parts of the roofing were damaged by a windstorm.
According to him, the main structure remains intact, with repairs already underway, and no casualties recorded.
“The terminal did not collapse. What occurred was minor roof damage caused by strong winds,” Wike explained.
Providing updates on infrastructure development in the FCT, the minister expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, disclosing that major road projects would be completed by May 15, while streetlight installations are expected to be finalised before the end of the month.
He also highlighted progress at the Wassa relocation site for artisans, noting that the long-delayed project aimed at resettling mechanics and other informal workers was now advancing steadily.
Wike attributed the progress to improved coordination between contractors and relevant government agencies, assuring residents of timely delivery of key projects.