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Ousted Lagos Speaker Mudashiru Obasa stormed the State Assembly with armed police and NSCDC officers, escalating the leadership crisis. His loyalists forced open the Speaker’s office as security for incumbent Speaker Mojisola Meranda was withdrawn. Tensions rise as calls for Governor Sanwo-Olu’s intervention grow amid fears of potential violence.

Confusion erupted at the Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday as ousted Speaker Mudashiru Obasa arrived at the complex, flanked by heavily armed police officers and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel. His unexpected entry, allegedly aimed at reclaiming his position, has further deepened the ongoing leadership crisis.

Obasa arrived at the Assembly around 11:30 AM, accompanied by lawmakers Ayinde Akinsanya (Mushin Constituency I) and Noheem Adams (Mushin Constituency II), as well as a group of armed loyalists. Reports indicate that the doors to the Speaker’s office were forcibly opened by his supporters, who sought to reinstate him despite his removal in January.

The crisis has paralyzed legislative activities, with access roads leading to the complex blocked by Obasa’s allies. Notably, current Speaker Mojisola Meranda was absent at the time, raising concerns over the security vacuum caused by the recent withdrawal of her police and DSS security details.

An aide to Speaker Meranda expressed concerns over her safety, calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene. The ongoing standoff follows failed mediation efforts by President Bola Tinubu, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), and the APC.

Tensions remain high as political stakeholders warn of potential violence if the crisis is not urgently addressed. Security agencies have yet to release an official statement regarding Obasa’s attempted return.