The Rivers State Government denies claims that it blocks a pro-Tinubu political support group from using the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, saying the facility is currently under reconstruction and unsafe for public events.
The denial follows allegations by the Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Desmond Akawor, and comments credited to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that the state government frustrates plans to inaugurate the group at the stadium, according to reports monitored by Mediaplusng.com.
Speaking after an inspection tour of the facility, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, says the government never receives any formal request for the use of the stadium. He explains that ongoing rehabilitation work makes the venue unsuitable for political gatherings or mass events at this time.
Dr Sirawoo insists that claims of political interference are misleading and do not reflect the true situation on ground. He adds that public safety remains the government’s priority, especially at major facilities undergoing reconstruction.
As reported by Mediaplusng.com, the Commissioner for Sports and Attorney-General of Rivers State, Christopher Green, also confirms that the Yakubu Gowon Stadium is still a construction site and cannot be released for use until work is completed and safety standards are certified.
Green warns that allowing large crowds into the stadium could expose users to serious risks and potentially damage critical infrastructure already installed beneath the pitch and surrounding areas.
Providing technical insight, the site engineer handling the project, Michael Ebitenye, explains that underground pipes and support systems are still exposed and sensitive. He cautions that heavy human traffic could lead to structural damage and safety hazards.
Ebitenye notes that the reconstruction involves critical upgrades aimed at improving the stadium’s durability, drainage, and overall safety, stressing that premature use could reverse progress already made.
The Rivers State Government maintains that its decision has nothing to do with politics or the identity of any group but is based solely on engineering advice and safety considerations.
Officials urge political groups and event organisers to always submit formal applications and seek confirmation on the status of public facilities before making announcements or mobilising supporters.
The government also appeals to residents to avoid spreading unverified information capable of heightening political tension in the state, especially at a time when major infrastructure projects are ongoing.
It reiterates its commitment to freedom of association and peaceful political activities, assuring that all groups will have equal access to public facilities once reconstruction work is completed and the stadium is officially reopened for use.
The state government concludes by stressing that safety, due process, and responsible public communication remain central to its approach in managing public infrastructure and political activities across Rivers State.
