…Lawmakers Stand by Meranda
The Lagos State House of Assembly descended into chaos on Monday as operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Police Force entered the assembly premises.
The security personnel reportedly sealed the offices of Speaker Mojisola Meranda, Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk of the House. This action led to a tense standoff between lawmakers and security officers, with the lawmakers eventually regaining access to the assembly.
The unexpected security operation disrupted proceedings and forced lawmakers to suspend plenary indefinitely.
The DSS, in a statement, explained that their presence was at the behest of the Assembly’s management.
A letter dated 14 February 2025, signed by Acting Clerk A.T.B. Ottun, requested enhanced security measures, citing credible information about plans to forcibly reinstate the impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, on 18 February 2025.
The letter stated, “The impeached Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly plans to resume office on the 18th of February, 2025, as the Speaker, posing a potential security threat to the Assembly and its members.”
Reacting to the day’s events, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the involvement of security operatives in the Assembly’s affairs.
He remarked, “The viral video of armed security operatives invading the Lagos State House of Assembly is utterly reprehensible and stands condemned.”
Atiku further urged President Bola Tinubu to refrain from interfering in state matters, suggesting that the President should focus on addressing national economic challenges.
In light of the security breach, the Assembly has suspended plenary sessions indefinitely and has also resolved to investigate the incident and report their findings to President Bola Tinubu and the DSS Director General, Oluwatosin Ajayi.
Despite the security situation, 36 members of the House passed a vote of confidence on Speaker Mojisola Meranda, reaffirming their support for her leadership.
Oladipo Ajomale, representing Oshodi/Isolo 2, moved the motion on the floor of the House, stating that the Speaker had been duly elected by the lawmakers and was the best person to lead at this time.
The motion was seconded by Aro Moshood, and all remaining 34 lawmakers threw their weight behind Meranda.
Interestingly, Assembly staff also demonstrated solidarity with the Speaker, further cementing her position.
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