Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has dismissed claims in some quarters that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was denied permission to use the Eagle Square for its national convention.
- +Convention: Wike says ADC didn’t apply to use Eagle Square
Wike spoke on Monday in Abuja during a project inspection tour, describing the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated.
Wike spoke on Monday in Abuja during a project inspection tour, describing the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated.
Reports had indicated that the David Mark-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the ADC was denied the use of Eagle Square and the Transcorp Hilton for its convention scheduled for Tuesday.
However, the minister said no formal application was received, insisting that access to the venue is open to all, provided due process is followed.
“We do not deny access; such events generate revenue for the government. Who denied them? I am not aware of any such development and I don’t even know which party you are referring to,” Wike said.
“If it is the ADC, such claims are their usual attempt to gain public sympathy,” he added.
Wike explained that the use of Eagle Square requires a formal application through the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), the agency responsible for managing the facility, along with payment of the stipulated fees.
He further clarified that the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Velodrome does not fall under the jurisdiction of the FCT Administration (FCTA), but is managed by the National Sports Commission (NSC).
“As we speak, no formal application has been submitted to the Abuja Investments Company Limited. When the APC used Eagle Square and the PDP used the Stadium Velodrome, they complied with the process. We do not deny anyone access if the rules are followed,” he said.
