BREAKING: Obasa Storms Lagos Assembly as Speakership Battle Heats Up!

The Lagos State House of Assembly remains in turmoil as former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa made a dramatic return to the complex on Thursday, escorted by heavily armed security operatives. His arrival comes amid a prolonged speakership tussle that has unsettled the legislative arm of the state.

Recent reports indicate that Obasa’s dramatic entry into the Assembly on Thursday occurred after all security aides assigned to Speaker Mojisola Meranda were withdrawn. This move has raised serious concerns about her safety amid the ongoing leadership crisis.

Sources revealed that Obasa was escorted by a team of security personnel, including police officers, while Meranda was left without official protection as her security details were pulled. A source within Meranda’s camp told SaharaReporters, “They have withdrawn all police officers attached to Mojisola Meranda. The policemen are protecting him; they are with him currently inside the complex. We are still watching him.”

In contrast, security details for Obasa have since been restored as the power struggle continues in the Assembly.

Power Struggle: DSS Locks Down Lagos Assembly in Speakership Clash

Obasa, who had not been publicly seen at the Assembly Complex since his removal on January 13, 2025, was met by a crowd of cheering supporters at the entrance. The lawmaker, representing Agege Constituency I, was ousted when over two-thirds of the 40-member House voted him out over alleged misconduct.

His former deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was immediately elected as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, making history as the first female to hold the position in South-West Nigeria. A day after assuming office, Meranda met with the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) to seek their endorsement, alongside other assembly members at the Lagos House, Marina.

Despite his removal, Obasa has rejected the decision, insisting that he remains the legitimate speaker. He claims the impeachment process was flawed and militarized, stating that it occurred in his absence while he was outside Nigeria. However, 36 lawmakers loyal to Meranda maintain that the decision is final and reaffirmed their support for her leadership.

Tensions escalated on February 17, 2025, when security agents clashed with legislative workers at the Assembly Complex. Following the incident, lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in an emotional Meranda and adjourned sitting indefinitely.

Lagos Assembly Crisis: 36 Lawmakers Back Meranda with Vote of Confidence

Security Concerns as Police Withdraw Speaker’s Orderlies

In a new twist, Meranda’s aide, Victor Ganzallo, accused the police of withdrawing all security personnel attached to the Speaker and the Assembly Complex without explanation. In a statement, Ganzallo questioned whether the move was politically motivated or part of a broader strategy to destabilize the Lagos legislative body.

“The timing of this security withdrawal, coupled with the actions of the former Speaker and his allies, raises concerns about possible political interference,” Ganzallo stated. “We demand immediate clarification from the police and state government regarding their roles in this matter.”

The Lagos State Police Command has yet to release an official statement. When contacted, police spokesman Benjamin Hundeyin declined to comment, noting that Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh would address the issue at a later time.

Stay updated as the Lagos speakership battle unfolds.