By Our Correspondent
Former Rivers State Governor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has accused the Rivers State Government of deliberately denying his group access to the General Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, despite a formal application.
According to Wike, the request to use the state-owned facility was submitted through the appropriate channels but was rejected without what he described as a justifiable reason. He expressed frustration over the decision, suggesting that the refusal was politically motivated rather than based on administrative or security concerns.
Wike warned that if similar applications are made in the future and are again turned down, his supporters may be forced to take drastic action. He stated that continued denial of access to public facilities could provoke confrontation, emphasizing that such facilities are funded with public resources and should be accessible to all groups without discrimination.
The comments have sparked concern among observers, with critics warning that such rhetoric could escalate political tension in the state. Others have called on the Rivers State Government to clarify the reasons behind the refusal and urged all parties to resolve disputes through lawful and peaceful means.
As of now, the Rivers State Government has not issued an official response to Wike’s claims.
