Governor Fubura of Rivers State
Rivers denies political motive in stadium closure, cites safety concerns
The Rivers State Government has clarified its decision not to grant use of the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt for a political event linked to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. It dismissed reports of a deliberate blockage as “false and misleading,” attributing them to political motives.
Officials stated the stadium is currently undergoing major reconstruction and is unsafe for public gatherings.
The clarification follows allegations made by Desmond Akawor, the Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, who claimed the group was denied access for its inauguration ceremony.
This claim was later echoed by Minister Wike, who warned that supporters would force their way in if denied again.
In response, the government invited journalists to inspect the stadium’s condition. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, stated the claims were baseless, explaining that extensive work on both the pitch and spectator areas creates serious safety risks.
“No responsible government would allow people to enter a facility that is still being rebuilt,” he said, urging political leaders to prioritize resident safety over partisan interests.
The Commissioner for Sports and Attorney-General, Christopher Green, noted his ministry never received an official request from the group for stadium use, emphasizing the necessity of proper procedures.
He pointed out that the event was ultimately held at Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, another state-owned facility, as proof the government was not attempting to frustrate the pro-Tinubu gathering.
The site engineer for the project, Michael Ebitenye, warned that allowing access could damage critical underground infrastructure and that certain sections, including VIP areas, are currently hazardous.
He stated the construction company would not permit any events while work remains ongoing, asserting that opening the facility now would risk lives “regardless of who is organising the event.”
The government maintained its decision was strictly based on safety, not politics, and urged the public to disregard claims it was targeted at any individual or group.
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