The Rivers State House of Assembly has suspended its other legislative activities to allow lawmakers inspect communities affected by severe flooding in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas.

The decision followed a motion moved by the Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. Linda Somiari-Stewart, under Order 26 of the House Standing Orders during the 55th Legislative Sitting of the Fourth Session.

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Somiari-Stewart called for urgent attention to the flooding, saying residents in affected communities had suffered damage to their homes, property and sources of livelihood. She also raised concerns over reports of reptiles entering some houses as floodwaters spread into residential areas.

Following the motion, Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule expressed concern over the situation and directed lawmakers to visit affected communities within their constituencies to assess the extent of the damage.

The lawmakers subsequently agreed to inspect some of the worst-affected areas across Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor, with members visiting flooded communities and interacting with residents.

During the inspection, the lawmakers assessed the impact of the flooding on homes, movement and daily activities while gathering information from affected residents.

The Assembly said the findings from the inspection would help lawmakers better understand the extent and causes of the flooding and guide discussions on possible measures by the government to address the situation and assist affected communities.