The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Monday challenged the African Democratic Congress to provide evidence of its application to use Eagle Square, dismissing claims that authorities blocked the party from accessing the venue for its national convention.
Wike, who spoke with journalists during an inspection of ongoing projects in Abuja, said no formal request had been submitted to his office or any relevant authority, insisting that the venue remains open to all organisations that comply with established procedures.
The minister’s remarks come amid allegations by the ADC that it was denied approval to use Eagle Square and the Velodrome of the National Stadium, Abuja, claims Wike described as unfounded and an attempt to court public sympathy.
He described the allegations as incorrect and not based on any official application process.
“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,” he said.
The ADC, speaking through its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, had accused the authorities of frustrating its preparations for its national convention slated for Tuesday, April 14, by allegedly withholding approval to use Eagle Square and the Velodrome at the National Stadium, Abuja.
The opposition party had claimed that its requests were ignored, without a response.
