The Rivers State Government has explained why the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt was not made available for a political event linked to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike.
Contrary to claims by supporters of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, the government said it did not block access to the stadium for political reasons, describing such reports as “false and misleading” and politically driven.
State officials explained that the stadium is currently under major reconstruction and unsafe for public use.
The dispute began when the Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Desmond Akawor, said the group was denied use of the stadium for its inauguration. Akawor made the claim during an event at Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic after the stadium could not be used. Mr. Wike later repeated the allegation and warned supporters that they might force entry if access was denied again.
In response, the state government invited journalists to inspect the stadium to show its condition. Speaking after the tour, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, said the allegations lacked basis. He said large parts of the stadium, including the pitch and spectator areas, remain under intensive works and pose serious safety risks.
“No responsible government would allow people to enter a facility that is still being rebuilt,” Sirawoo said, urging political actors to prioritise public safety over party interests.
Rivers State Commissioner for Sports and Attorney-General, Christopher Green, also said his ministry never received an official request from the Renewed Hope Ambassadors to use the stadium, stressing that proper procedures must be followed for use of government facilities.
Green added that the fact the event was held at Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic — another government facility — shows the administration did not attempt to frustrate the group.
Michael Ebitenye, the site engineer overseeing reconstruction, said allowing gatherings at the stadium at this stage could damage structures and endanger lives, noting that underground pipes and unfinished sections could be harmed by heavy usage.
The government reiterated its decision is based strictly on safety concerns, not politics, and urged the public to disregard claims suggesting the action targeted any individual or group.
