The Rivers State Government has refuted claims that it prevented Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Desmond Akawor, from accessing Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt, for the group’s inauguration in support of President Bola Tinubu.
Akawor had alleged on Friday that the state government denied the group permission to use the stadium for the event, which was later held at Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, Port Harcourt. FCT Minister Wike echoed the claim during the inauguration, warning that if denied access again, supporters would forcibly enter the stadium.
In response, the Rivers State Government described the allegations as misleading, explaining that the stadium is currently under reconstruction and unsafe for public events.
Speaking to journalists after an inspection of the facility on Friday evening, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, said there was no truth to the claim. He toured the stadium alongside Commissioner for Sports, Christopher Green, and the site engineer, Michael Ebitenye, who highlighted the risks posed by ongoing works.
Sirawoo urged political figures to prioritize the welfare of Rivers State over partisan interests, emphasizing that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains committed to supporting President Tinubu’s re-election.
Commissioner Green noted that no formal request to use the stadium was received by his office and stressed that the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, where the event eventually took place, is also state-owned.
Site engineer Ebitenye warned that the stadium is in a delicate state, with underground pipes and sections of the VIP area vulnerable to damage. He assured that the contracting company, Monimichelle, would not allow the use of the stadium during renovations to protect lives and property, irrespective of political affiliation.
