The government stated that it took this action in response to the burning down of the state Assembly chambers by unknown political thugs on October 30.
The legislative arm of the state has been in crisis following attempts by some lawmakers to impeach Governor Siminialayi Fubara.
Around 5 a.m., no fewer than 10 bulldozers, excavators, and other heavy-duty machines were brought to the assembly complex.
By 6 p.m., part of the building housing the Assembly and the conference hall used for public hearings had been fully brought down.
However, the Rivers State Government clarified that the demolition was carried out based on advice from experts. The government stated that the experts indicated that the integrity of the structure had been compromised due to structural defects arising mainly from the recent explosion and fire incident at the Assembly. The building has been declared unfit for human use.
In a statement by the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Joseph Johnson, it was mentioned, "After the governor's visit to inspect the level of damage done to the building on the day of the fire incident, it became necessary to invite professionals to advise the government on the integrity of the building."
“It will be recalled that on the night of the attack on the complex, explosive dynamites were used, which shook it to foundation. There were visible cracks on the walls afterwards, and the entire structure looked frail and unsafe for legislative business.”
He noted that the government had tried all cost saving measures towards repairing the complex until it bowed to superior view of rebuilding the complex to a more befitting edifice.
Johnson said: “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.
“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.”
