In separate interviews with correspondents of the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja, the park operators attributed the poor patronage to the current security challenge facing the country.
A NAN correspondent who visited some of the parks reports that there was lull in activities at the facilities in spite of the festive season.
Head, Programmes and Events, FCTA Parks and Recreation Department, Mr Abdulatif Olausebikan, told NANthat the parks had provided numerous experiences for Nigerians during festive occasions.
Olaosebikan said that the security situation in the country might have contributed to the low turnout of people at the parks.
He, however, advised Nigerians to be security conscious and support the Federal Government in the fight against insurgency for peace to reign in the country.
He said, “The parks and recreation department is collaborating with the Jabi Lake users to package some events basically for the festive season. But it is obvious that the turnout is a bit low and the only reason for this is the security situation report that we have gotten in the country.
“I will rather advise Nigerians not to panic but only be security conscious and support the government in its fight against insurgency.”
A fun seeker in the park, Mrs Atinuke Ademola, expressed shock over recent security developments in parts of the country.
Ademola, who was out to celebrate with her family, however, attributed the low turnout to paucity of money to celebrate the Christmas.
He said, “It is obvious that many civil servants are yet to be paid their salary and if this is so, how do you expect them to come out and celebrate with their family.
“Celebration is all about money and the government should fast track a means to pay this salary as there is still more time to celebrate because the New Year is still there.”
She further pleaded with Nigerians to know where to go and ensure vigilance.
On his part, Mr. Ifeanyi Uche, a banker, told NAN that the low patronage was due to the fact that many residents had travelled out of Abuja for the Christmas.
He also said the low turnout could be attributed to the fact that most people could decide to rest at home with their family for fear of attack.
Uche, however, expressed hope that the present security threat posed by insurgents would soon become a thing of the past if only the government would act appropriately.
Mr Jacobs Akin, operations manager at Assorted Foods and Integrated Park, Jabi, attributed the low patronage on cash crunch.
He said that despite the discount given to customers during the festive period, there was still low patronage.
Ms Omololu Ibitayo, a 10-year-old girl, also told NAN that she was unable to get the best of the fun because most of her friends had travelled out of Abuja.
She said, “My friends have travelled out of Abuja and most of them are not going to come back until after the 2015 election.
“One of my friends told me that her mother insisted they were not coming back until the election is over for fear that the Boko Haram might want to strike.
“Though I am also afraid, but I believe that God will keep those of us who are still around in this town.”
Madam Matilda,you no go fear fear?
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