Adamawa State government has declined a request by President Muhammadu Buhari for the use of Ribadu Square in Yola for the All Progressives Congress presidential campaign on Monday.
Ahmadu Fintiri, a governor on the Peoplea Democratic Party platform, said the square is currently undergoing renovation, hence, it’s unavailable for any function.
President is billed to lead his party’s campaign in the state in accordance with the updated timetable released by the Chief Spokesperson and Director of Public Affairs, APC Presidential Campaign Council, Festus Keyamo (SAN).
Adamawa is one of the “at least 10 states” where Buhari is expected to join the APC presidential campaign train.
Adamawa State government rejection followed a formal letter by President
Buhari’s Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, notifying him of the planned APC campaign in the Stae.
Adamawa government’s rejection was contained in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Bashiru Ahmad, saying the facility is owned by the State government and is undergoing renovation.
The reply to the Presidency letter said: “I write to acknowledge your letter ref. SH/COS/28/16/A/793 dated 3” January, 2023 addressed to His Excellency, the Governor, in respect of the above subject matter.
“It is with utmost joy that we always welcome the news of a visit by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Adamawa State and always prepare to accord him a rousing welcome with the highest level of respect notwithstanding political party differences.
“Please note that, on this proposed visit that is scheduled for 9 January, 2023 and considering the purpose of the visit which is rally, the only befitting place (Ribadu Square) that is secured enough to host Mr. President, on occasions like this, and the surrounding infrastructural facilities are under extensive renovation.
“We, therefore, write to inform you that, much as we would want to provide a place befitting to receive Mr. President, we are constrained because we cannot guarantee the readiness of Ribadu Square before the due date of the flag-off.
“However, we are working round the clock and racing against time, along with the contractors, to get the place fairly ready to receive the President on the 18 January, 2023 when the presidential campaign train of the APC berths in our state.
“Sir, while hoping that you will take seriously the foregoing in your planning, accept, as always my highest respect for your esteemed office.”
