PORT HARCOURT – The reconstruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex is making steady progress, with authorities expressing confidence that the project will be completed within the scheduled timeframe. The Sole Administrator of the state, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), who inspected the project on Saturday, assured that the legislative building would be ready for use in six months.
Ibas, accompanied by the Head of Civil Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, was received at the project site on Moscow Road, Port Harcourt, by Engr. Omaka Oko, General Manager of Monier Construction Company (MCC) Limited, the firm handling the reconstruction. “We are well on track. The new complex is designed as a two-story structure with 34 en-suite offices, an elevator, a gallery, meeting rooms, and a conference hall. The foundation is solid, and key structural elements have been put in place,” Oko explained.
Checks by GMTNewsng correspondent in Port Harcourt confirmed significant progress at the site, with visible reinforcement pillars, partitioned office spaces. Construction workers were seen handling different installations, while heavy machinery operated on-site, underscoring the level of commitment to the project. “The pace of work here shows serious government commitment,” remarked an observer, Engr. Ifeanyi Wekeh, a structural engineer monitoring the development.
The Sole Administrator underscored the importance of providing a conducive working environment for lawmakers, noting that a functional legislature is vital to good governance. “By the end of six months, this place will be ready for those who need to use it. The legislature must have a proper workspace, and this project is crucial to that objective,” Ibas stated.
A senior official in the state’s Ministry of Works, who spoke on condition of anonymity, affirmed that the project was initiated under Governor Siminalayi Fubara and had received adequate funding. “This reconstruction was planned and commenced under Fubara’s administration. It is incorrect to say nothing was done,” the official noted.
Political analyst Dr. Emeka Onua described the development as “a positive step for institutional strengthening in Rivers State,” urging that public discourse around it should focus on the progress made. “There is an ongoing attempt to diminish the achievements of Fubara, but the evidence is clear – work is in progress. The public should be guided by facts, not political narratives,” Onu said.
Residents of the state have expressed optimism that the project will enhance governance, with some calling for peace and unity among political actors. A market leader in Port Harcourt, Mrs. Charity Wonodi, urged leaders to set aside differences and prioritize the state’s development. “We want our leaders to work together for the good of Rivers State. This constant political tension is affecting governance and development,” she said.
A Port Harcourt resident Chief Sylvester Ugwu echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the focus should remain on delivering good governance. “The priority should be governance, not disputes. This project must continue and be completed without political distractions,” he stated.
Observers have also stressed the importance of accurate information in assessing development efforts, cautioning against narratives that may not reflect realities on the ground. “Misinformation can deepen divisions. The federal government should support reconciliation efforts and distance self from unnecessary controversies,” noted Dr. Grace Inye, a lecturer in political science.
As reconstruction efforts continue, stakeholders have called for collective support to ensure the timely completion of the project, noting that a strong legislature is crucial to democracy and development in Rivers State.
Pictures of the progress of work on the Complex are below:
GMTNewsng
