The Rivers State Government has rejected claims that it barred the use of the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, for a Renewed Hope Ambassadors rally, describing the allegation as false, misleading and politically driven.
The state government said the decision had nothing to do with politics but was purely based on safety considerations, as the stadium is currently undergoing extensive reconstruction and is unsafe for public gatherings.
Speaking during a guided tour of the stadium complex with journalists on Friday, January 30, 2026, the Coordinating Commissioner for Sports and Attorney-General of the state, Barrister Chris Green, said no formal application was submitted for the use of the facility.
Green challenged those making the claims to produce evidence of any rejected request, stressing that the stadium is an active construction site and poses significant risks.
“The Yakubu Gowon Stadium is a construction zone with heavy equipment and sensitive installations. I have not received any application, and anyone who says otherwise should present proof,” he said.
He explained that the ongoing reconstruction, being carried out by Monimichelie Sports Construction Company, is aimed at upgrading the stadium to FIFA and World Athletics standards. According to him, over 40,000 pipes have been installed beneath the pitch, making the surface fragile and unsuitable for mass human activity.
Green added that the government has continued to make alternative venues available for political and public events, noting that facilities such as the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium and the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic remain open for use.
“If the intention was to stop a rally, why are other government-owned facilities available? The state does not deny access to public facilities,” he said.
Corroborating the safety concerns, an engineer with the construction firm, Michael Ebitenye, disclosed that the project was about 55 per cent completed and currently at a critical mechanical stage.
He warned that human traffic could severely damage the hydrological and geotextile systems being installed, adding that the site’s insurance policy prohibits public access until completion and formal handover.
“This stage of construction is highly sensitive. Any heavy movement on the pitch could destroy the drainage system of this FIFA-standard facility,” Ebitenye said.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, urged political actors to avoid inflammatory claims that could heighten tension in the state.
Sirawoo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peace and unity, noting that the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic remains available for use.
He further revealed that checks across relevant government offices, including the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, confirmed that no application was received for the use of the Yakubu Gowon Stadium.
“There is no letter on record. Allegations without evidence can damage the image and cohesion of the state,” he said.
