The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that political parties are being denied access to Eagle Square in Abuja, saying the allegations are incorrect and not based on any official application process.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/TheNigerialawyer-WhatsApp-Channel1.jpg")
He made the clarification on Monday while speaking with journalists during an inspection of ongoing projects across the capital city.
The clarification comes amid reports published by Sahara Reporters, in which the African Democratic Congress accused the authorities of frustrating its preparations for its national convention by allegedly withholding approval to use Eagle Square and the Velodrome in Abuja.
The opposition party had claimed that its requests were ignored.
Responding to the controversy, Wike explained that no request had been formally submitted by the groups making the claims, adding that the venue remains open to all organisations that meet the required conditions.
The minister said, “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, such claims are their usual attempt to gain public sympathy.
“As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to my office or any relevant authority to use Eagle Square.
“For example, when the Peoples Democratic Party held its convention, it followed due process and paid the necessary fees. The same applied to the All Progressives Congress.
“We do not deny any group access to the venue as long as they follow the established procedures. In fact, such events generate revenue for the government.
“Therefore, these claims are unfounded. If any party insists it was denied access, let them provide evidence of a formal application submitted and acknowledged by the relevant authorities.”
TheNigeriaLawyer understands that Nigerian government officials are well known for denying things even when evidence exists, so this is not new.
Wike also addressed reports suggesting that the Kugbo Bus Terminal had collapsed, describing the claims as inaccurate.
He said the incident involved damage to roofing sheets caused by a severe windstorm, which affected parts of the structure due to its elevated location.
According to him, the main building remains intact, while repair work is already ongoing. He urged members of the public to ignore reports of a collapse, noting that no casualties were recorded.
Wike said, “The terminal did not collapse. The structure is intact. What happened was that strong winds blew off parts of the roof. Repairs are ongoing.”
In a separate update on infrastructure projects in Abuja, the minister expressed satisfaction with the pace of ongoing works, stating that several key road and streetlight projects are expected to be completed before the end of May.
He disclosed that road construction is scheduled to be completed by May 15, while streetlight installation is expected to be concluded by May 31.
Wike said, “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.”
Wike also highlighted progress at the Wassa artisan relocation site, a project designed to provide a permanent location for mechanics and other informal sector workers.
“Successive administrations have promised this relocation, but we are finally fulfilling that commitment,” he said.
He added that the project, being handled by CGC Nigeria Limited, is moving steadily, attributing the progress to coordination between contractors and government agencies.
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation
______________________________________________________________________
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR LAWYERS: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Reimagine your practice with the power of AI “...this is the only Nigerian book I know of on the topic.” — Ohio Books Ltd
Authored by Ben Ijeoma Adigwe, Esq., ACIArb (UK), LL.M, Dip. in Artificial Intelligence, Director, Delta State Ministry of Justice, Asaba, Nigeria.
Bonus:
Get a FREE eBook titled “How to Use the AI in Legalpedia and Law Pavilion” with every purchase.
How to Order: 📞 Call, Text, or WhatsApp: 08034917063 | 07055285878 📧 Email: benadigwe1@gmail.com 🌐 Website: www.benadigwe.com
Ebook Version: Access directly online at: https://selar.com/prv626
______________________________________________________________________ “Bridging Theory And Courtroom Practice” — Hagler Sunny Okorie, Nathaniel Ngozi Ikeocha Unveil ‘Functional’ Tort Law Book For Nigerian Legal System
The book, titled The Law of Torts in Nigeria: A Functional Approach, authored by Professor Hagler Sunny Okorie Ph.D and Ikeocha, Nathaniel Ngozi Esq, offers law students, practitioners, and academics a comprehensive guide to understanding and applying tort law in Nigerian courts. Interested buyers can place orders via the following contact numbers: 08028636615, 08037667945, 08032253813, or +234 902 196 2209.
______________________________________________________________________
“Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
