Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas (retired), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, conducted an on-site inspection of the ongoing reconstruction at the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex on Saturday. This visit underscores the administration’s commitment to expediting the completion of the legislative facility, which has been under renovation following a fire incident in late 2023.
During his tour, Vice Admiral Ibas urged the contractors to intensify their efforts to ensure the project is completed within the agreed timeframe. He emphasized that restoring the Assembly Complex is pivotal for reinstating full legislative functions in the state, aligning with his mandate to maintain law and order.
The Assembly Complex suffered significant damage due to a fire in November 2023, amid political tensions between the executive and legislative branches. Subsequent assessments by structural experts deemed the building unsafe, leading to the decision for a comprehensive demolition and reconstruction.
The reconstruction contract was awarded to Monier Construction Company (MCC) Limited, with the project encompassing 34 en-suite offices, among other facilities. Prior to the declaration of the state of emergency, substantial progress had been made under the supervision of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
In the interim, legislative sessions have been relocated to the Government House to ensure the continuity of governance. The expedited completion of the Assembly Complex is anticipated to facilitate the resumption of regular legislative activities, contributing to the stabilization and development of Rivers State.
