Ahead of the plenary session of the Lagos State House of assembly, there was a mild drama as security operatives manned the premises of the state assembly complex in the Alausa area. Security vans and personnel were spotted in and outside the premises, personnels manned the road leading to the premise, some even tried to gain access into the assembly chamber. This heightened security not confirmed to be a threat or a security measure resulted in a delay of the plenary session for several hours. This heightened security followed the recent leadership change within the Assembly, specifically the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and the appointment of Meranda Mojisola as his replacement.
Delayed Plenary Session and Leadership Speculation
Despite the delay, the leader of the Lagos house Assembly confirmed the presence of Speaker Mojisola and 32 members, the specific agenda remained unclear at the time of this report. The heightened security, unclear plenary agenda and actions of some assembly workers have fueled speculation of Mojisola removal or resignation, despite assurances from a source that the House leadership was intact. A group of workers were seen surrounding Mojisola, voicing their support for her continued leadership.
Background: Obasa’s Removal and Mojisola’s Appointment
Last month, the Assembly removed long-term Speaker Mudashiru Obasa following allegations of fraud and other unspecified charges. Mojisola, representing Apapa Constituency I, was subsequently elected as the first female Speaker in the House’s history. Abiodun Tobun, a member representing Epe Constituency 1, defended the impeachment, citing the Assembly’s constitutional authority to regulate its proceedings and the need to restore the House’s integrity. While some suggested Obasa’s removal was linked to his purported gubernatorial ambitions, Obasa himself denied any wrongdoing.
Legal Challenge to Obasa’s Removal
Weeks after his removal, Obasa initiated legal action against the Assembly and Mojisola in the Lagos State High Court, challenging the legality of his dismissal, arguing that the Assembly was in recess at the time of his removal.
Conclusion
The events surrounding the Lagos State House of Assembly highlight the ongoing political tensions and power struggles within the legislative body. The increased security, delayed plenary, and the legal challenge filed by the former Speaker underscore the significant implications of the leadership change and the potential for further instability. The situation remains fluid, and the outcome of Obasa’s legal challenge will significantly influence the future political landscape of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
