The Lagos State House of Assembly crisis worsens as Speaker Mojisola Meranda loses her security protection. The sudden withdrawal of police and DSS operatives raises concerns amid a leadership tussle. This follows the suspended Clerk’s failed return attempt, intensifying the Assembly’s political turmoil despite intervention efforts.
The leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly has taken a new twist following the sudden withdrawal of security personnel assigned to Speaker Mojisola Meranda.
Sources within the Assembly revealed that all police officers and Department of State Services (DSS) operatives attached to Meranda were removed without explanation on Thursday morning, leaving her vulnerable amid the ongoing power struggle.
An aide to the Speaker, speaking anonymously, described the situation as alarming and called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene before the crisis escalates.
"This morning, we woke up to the shocking news that all security personnel assigned to Madam Speaker had been pulled out without any replacement. This is dangerous, considering the political tension within the Assembly," the aide said.
The political turmoil intensified on Wednesday when Olalekan Onafeko, the suspended Clerk of the House, attempted to resume duty at the Assembly complex. He arrived with legal representation and security personnel but was swiftly turned away by officials who cited an ongoing legal dispute over his removal.
Eyewitnesses reported that Assembly staff booed and jeered at Onafeko as he was escorted out, with videos of the incident circulating widely on social media.
The crisis stems from the January 13 ousting of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was removed by a majority of Assembly members. Despite efforts from President Bola Tinubu, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to restore stability, the leadership tussle remains unresolved.
With tensions at an all-time high, stakeholders are urging swift action to prevent further breakdown of order and ensure the safety of Speaker Meranda and Assembly members.
