The Managing Director of Laralek Ultimate Construction Company, Olalekan Adebiyi, on Saturday dismissed reports alleging roof leakage at the White House section of the National Assembly during Friday’s downpour.
An online platform (not PUNCH Online) had claimed the storm compromised the renovation works executed by Laralek’s subsidiary, Visible Construction Company, between 2022 and 2024. The report suggested that some National Assembly staff believed the N38bn renovation contract should have been awarded to Julius Berger, alleging shoddy work and potential compromise by the Federal Capital Development Authority.
Responding via a telephone interview with journalists covering the National Assembly, Adebiyi described the report as false and baseless.
He explained that an investigation by Visible Construction revealed there was no leakage from the White House roof. According to him, the roofing material used — Amothene, imported from the United States — is watertight and highly resistant to leakage.
“The report is unfounded and driven by envy,” Adebiyi said. “If Julius Berger had handled the project, no one would spread such falsehoods. Some Nigerians seem bent on being enemies of their fellow countrymen without cause.”
He clarified that the water observed came through smaller windows at the upper section of the chamber, not through the roof. “The story lacked any evidence of actual roof leakage, making it unprofessional and unethical,” he added.
“Our work stands firm. More rains will fall, and time will vindicate us,” Adebiyi insisted.
Meanwhile, a visit by our correspondent to the National Assembly showed that many areas remained shut. No visible signs of roof damage or water pooling were observed, and security operatives on site were unaware of any such incident.
