The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that no formal application has been received for the use of Eagle Square in Abuja as a protest ground.
Wike disclosed this during a town hall meeting on Saturday, where he advised residents against joining the ’10 Days of Rage’ protest, planned for August 1-10, which seeks to address economic hardship.
The minister who stressed the importance of maintaining peace and order in the FCT, warned that the demonstration could be compromised if the protest proceeds.
He also clarified the proper procedures for requesting the use of public spaces like Eagle Square, including submitting a written application and paying a security deposit.
Wike said, “Who are these people who want to protest? They have applied to me to grant Eagle Square. Do you apply to me through social media?” he asked.
“You will write a letter to the minister. I will see you; who are you? What do you want to do? How many days do you want to spend? How much will you pay?
“You don’t apply to me through Channels; you must apply properly. You must pay what we call security cost so that if there is any damage to the facility, we will take from that security cost and repair it.
“We don’t just give people because you have applied. You must fulfil the conditions. People have paid for Eagle Square, and you said you have applied to me.
“So, I should go and cancel the other people’s own because you want to protest? It is first come, first served.”
A group under the aiges ‘Take It Back Movement (TIB),’ had in a letter addressed to the FCT minister on Friday July 26, 2024 requested permission to use Eagles Square in Abuja for the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protest.
According to TIB, the #DaysOfRange aim to address what it described as a “protracted national crisis” under the current government, and called for significant changes in governance and policy.
The letter read, “As one of the groups organizing the forthcoming #EndBadGovernance protest, #DaysOfRage starting from August ist to 10th, 2024; we at the Take it Back Movement (TIB), write to your esteemed office, to notify you of our decision to use the Eagles Square as a point of convergence for patriotic Nigerians to demand for better governance”.
“This request entails using this national asset-day and night for the duration of the historic protest. Also, note that the protest may be prolonged beyond ten days as we embark on resolving the protracted national crisis occasioned by the ruling party”.
“Your office must also ensure the provision of a 24-hour power supply, toilet facilities, water, and security for the convenience of Nigerian citizens who will be camped out at Eagle Square”.
“In short, we ask that the protesters are accorded the courtesy accorded to foreign and local official dignitaries who have frequently used the space”.
”In addition, we request that the outer wire mesh barrier facing the Aso Rock Villa be removed in the meantime, as protesters may decide to visit the Presidential Villa during the protest.”
