ADC Chieftain Slams Wike Over Eagle Square Controversy: Warning Issued to Nigerians

A prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ladan Salihu, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians regarding the credibility of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Monday, April 13, 2026, Salihu cautioned that believing the former Rivers State Governor on political matters is a risky venture. The politician suggested that the public should verify any claims made by the Minister with their own eyes before accepting them as truth, specifically referencing Wike's recent comments regarding the availability of public venues for political gatherings within the nation's capital.

The friction between the opposition party and the FCT Minister stems from the alleged denial of the ADC to utilize the iconic Eagle Square in Abuja for its scheduled national convention. While Nyesom Wike dismissed these claims on Monday, insisting that no formal application was ever submitted by the party, Salihu countered that the ADC had indeed made necessary contacts with security agencies and relevant authorities associated with the venue. He lamented that Eagle Square, a national symbol of democracy used for presidential inaugurations since 1999, is being shielded from opposition use, describing the situation as a major shame for the country’s democratic standing.

Salihu further emphasized that the ADC explored multiple venues across the FCT, including major hotels, but faced consistent hurdles in securing a location for their internal democratic process. He noted that despite the historical precedent of the venue being accessible to various political parties regardless of the administration in power, the current landscape suggests a deliberate attempt to stifle opposition activities.

In response to the standoff, the ADC has reportedly been forced to seek alternative arrangements to ensure their national convention proceeds. The Minister of the FCT maintains that the administration is simply following due process and that any party wishing to use public spaces must follow the established guidelines for application. However, Salihu and other party leaders view the development as a calculated political move to frustrate the main opposition.

Do you believe the FCT Minister is playing politics with the use of Eagle Square, or is this simply a matter of the ADC failing to follow proper procedure? Please drop your comments below!

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