Rivers Govt Denies Rally Ban, Says Stadium Under Reconstruction

The Rivers State Government (RSG) has dismissed allegations that it barred the use of the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia for a proposed Renewed Hope Ambassadors rally, describing the claim as false, politically motivated and capable of generating unnecessary tension.

The government clarified that the stadium is currently undergoing extensive reconstruction and remains unfit for public use, stressing that safety—not politics—informed its position.

Addressing journalists during an inspection tour of the facility on Friday, January 30, 2026, the Coordinating Commissioner for Sports, who also serves as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Chris Green, stated that no formal application was submitted to the state government for the use of the stadium.

According to him, those alleging a denial should provide documentary proof of any such request.

“The Yakubu Gowon Stadium is presently a construction zone. There is heavy-duty equipment, ongoing installations and sensitive mechanical works in progress. I have not received any application for its use, and if anyone claims otherwise, they should produce evidence,” Green said.

He explained that the reconstruction project, being executed by Monimichelie Sports Construction Company, is designed to upgrade the facility to meet FIFA and World Athletics standards. He revealed that over 40,000 pipes have been laid beneath the main pitch as part of an advanced drainage and hydrological system, making the surface extremely fragile at this stage.

Green described it as unreasonable to request access to a high-risk construction site for a mass gathering, noting that the state government has not restricted political activities and continues to make other public facilities available for lawful events.

“If there was any intention to prevent a rally, why are other government-owned venues such as the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium and the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic open for use? We do not stop people from accessing public facilities when due process is followed,” he added.

Technical experts at the site reinforced the safety concerns. An engineer with the construction firm, Michael Ebitenye, disclosed that the project is approximately 55 per cent completed and currently at a delicate mechanical phase.

He warned that the hydrological systems and geotextile layers being installed could suffer significant and irreversible damage if exposed to heavy human traffic. He further stated that the project’s insurance policy strictly prohibits public access until completion and official handover.

“At this stage, the mechanical and hydrological components are highly vulnerable. Any large gathering on the pitch could destroy the drainage network of this FIFA-standard facility. It is simply not safe for public use,” Ebitenye explained.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, reiterated the state government’s commitment to unity, peace and development. He urged political actors to refrain from making unsubstantiated claims capable of inflaming tensions.

Sirawoo disclosed that checks conducted across relevant government offices, including the Office of the Secretary to the State Government and other key ministries, confirmed that no application for the use of the Yakubu Gowon Stadium had been received.

“There is no record of any letter or formal request. Allegations without evidence can damage the image and cohesion of the state,” he said.

He further noted that the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, a government-owned facility, remains available for events and encouraged organisers to utilise appropriate venues through established procedures.

The Permanent Secretary assured that any properly submitted request to use government facilities for lawful activities that promote peace, development and the interest of Rivers State would receive due consideration.

He added that the administration of Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara remains focused on delivering the dividends of democracy while maintaining a peaceful and stable environment across the state.