The sole administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has called on the contractor handling the State Assembly Complex project to accelerate work and ensure it is completed as outlined in the contract.
He made the request during a site inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Assembly Complex, located along Moscow Road in Port Harcourt Local Government Area, on Saturday.
The retired naval officer emphasised that part of his mandate was to restore full and effective legislative functions in the state.
The project, awarded to Monier Construction Company (MCC) Limited, has made significant progress. It includes a two-story building with 34 en-suite offices, an elevator, a gallery, meeting rooms, and a conference hall.
The sole administrator explained that since taking office, he had identified a gap in the state’s governance structure and is committed to ensuring that a functional legislative space is available within six months.
“Having worked in the executive arm of the state government, I’ve noticed that one of the missing pillars right now is the legislature. For them to operate effectively, they also need a place to work from.”
“I am still assessing whether the work is progressing as expected, but my goal is for this space to be ready in six months for those who need it.”
“They (the contractor) have a schedule and timelines to which I believe they will adhere.”
He added that, according to the brief he received, the state has fulfilled its obligation by providing the necessary funds, and it is now the contractor’s responsibility to meet the agreed terms.
The retired Vice Admiral stressed that his primary role is to maintain law and order, which will enable the state to function as it should.
The Head of Service, George Nwaeke, accompanied him, and the General Manager of MCC, Omaka Oko, gave him a tour of the site.