The Rivers State Government has clarified that professional advice was the basis for its decision to demolish and rebuild the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex.
The government stated that experts had found that the building is no longer fit for human habitation because of structural flaws that mostly resulted from the recent explosion and fire catastrophe at the assembly's hallowed chambers, causing the integrity of the structure to be destroyed.
According to a statement made by Mr. Joseph Johnson, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, it became necessary to invite experts to advise the government on the building's integrity following the governor's visit to assess the extent of damage sustained on the day of the fire incident.
Recall that the facility was attacked with explosive dynamite the night of the attack, shaking its foundation in the process.
The entire building appeared flimsy and unsafe for legislative action, and there were apparent fissures in the walls later.
He stated that the administration had attempted every cost-cutting option to restore the complex before giving in to the overwhelming opinion that it would be better to rebuild it as a more appropriate structure.
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.”
