- The speaker’s office was sealed by security operatives shortly before dawn.
- Groups of police and task force personnel intermittently took brisk walks within and outside the complex to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
- Meranda sauntered into the assembly complex to cheers and applause from lawmakers and some members of staff.
The Lagos state house of assembly has suspended its plenary sessions indefinitely due to an invasion by Department of State Service (DSS).
Tensions rose on Monday as security personnel entered the assembly premises, locking the deputy speaker’s office before the plenary session.
This led to a confrontation between lawmakers and security officers, with lawmakers eventually regaining access to the assembly.
During the plenary session, lawmakers discussed the security breach and expressed vote of confidence in Speaker Mojisola Meranda.
They also decided to investigate the incident and submit their findings to President Bola Tinubu and SSS Director General Oluwatosin Ajayi.
Recall that the DSS had explained that the request came in the form of a letter from the Assembly dated February 14, 2025, which specifically sought increased security due to potential threats.
In the letter, the management of the Lagos state assembly informed security agencies in Lagos that there was credible information suggesting plans to forcefully reinstate the impeached speaker of the state assembly, Hon. Obasa, on February 18, 2025.
Accordingly, the assembly management stressed that the development posed “a potential security threat” to the Assembly and its members.
Meranda became the Lagos legislature’s first female speaker on January 13, 2025, after Mudashiru Obasa’s removal.
Obasa was abroad when replaced, and all principal positions and committees were dissolved following his impeachment.
Upon returning, Obasa claimed his removal didn’t follow due process, insisting he remained the assembly’s speaker.
Discussion about this post