Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has ordered the temporary relocation of the State House of Assembly to the Government House Auditorium, citing safety concerns after a fire incident damaged the assembly complex.

According to an executive order published in the state’s official gazette, the current assembly complex is “unsafe and constitutes a threat to the lives of staff and lawmakers.”

The move comes just hours after a Rivers State High Court granted an interim injunction restraining 25 lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike from parading themselves as legislators.

The court’s decision followed an exparte order filed by Speaker Victor Oko Jumbo and three others, who are loyal to Governor Fubara.

The governor’s order, dated October 30, 2023, states that the assembly complex was damaged in a fire incident on October 29, 2023, and requires urgent repairs and renovation.

To ensure the assembly’s business is not impeded, the order directs that all proceedings and business be temporarily relocated to the Government House Auditorium until the repairs are completed.