The Rivers State government has stated that it decided to demolish and reconstruct the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex due to structural defects caused by a recent explosion and fire incident. The main building was deemed unsuitable for human use as a result of these issues.
A statement released by Mr. Joseph Johnson, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, indicated that following the governor’s visit to assess the extent of damage to the building on the day of the fire incident, it became imperative to seek professional advice regarding the structure’s integrity.
The Commissioner explained that during the attack on the complex, dynamites caused an explosion that significantly impacted the foundation of the building.
“There were visible cracks on the walls afterwards, and the entire structure looked frail and unsafe for legislative business”, the statement said
He added: “After the assessment of the integrity of the complex, the experts warned the government that continuing to use the building in its present state would be disastrous.”
Johnson emphasized that the government had exhausted all cost-saving measures for repairing the complex before yielding to the compelling perspective of rebuilding it into a more fitting structure.
“In the interim, the Rivers State Government has provided an alternative venue for the House of Assembly to conduct their affairs pending the rebuilding of the complex”, he said.