By Ayomide Otitoju
The Rivers State Government has dismissed claims that it denied access to Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt, to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Desmond Akawor, for the inauguration of the political support group for President Bola Tinubu.
Akawor had alleged on Friday that the state blocked the group from using the stadium, a claim echoed by Wike, who warned that supporters would forcibly gain entry if access was denied again. The inauguration was ultimately held at Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, Port Harcourt.
Responding to the allegations, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, described the claims as “false and misleading,” noting that the stadium is currently undergoing reconstruction and unsafe for public use. Sirawoo, who inspected the facility with Commissioner for Sports Christopher Green and the site engineer, emphasized that ongoing works made the stadium unavailable for any event.
Green, who also serves as Attorney-General of the state, said no formal request had been received for use of the stadium and reaffirmed that the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, where the event was held, is also state-owned.
Site engineer Michael Ebitenye highlighted safety concerns, warning that heavy foot traffic could damage underground pipes and that VIP sections remain hazardous. He stressed that the contractor, Monimichelle, would not allow events in areas under renovation, regardless of political affiliation.
Sirawoo advised political actors to prioritize the interests of Rivers State above partisan ambitions, reiterating Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s re-election.
“The stadium is in a delicate condition,” Ebitenye said, adding, “It is our hope that this lapse will be short.”
