The crisis within the Lagos State House of Assembly has deepened following the withdrawal of security personnel assigned to Speaker Mojisola Meranda.
The move, which took effect on Thursday morning, has heightened concerns about her safety amid the ongoing leadership struggle.
Reports indicate that the withdrawal affected both police officers and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), leaving the Speaker without formal protection.
The development has added to tensions within the Assembly, raising questions about the political undercurrents influencing the decision.
An aide to Speaker Meranda, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident, describing it as unexpected.
“In the early hours of Thursday, we received the shocking news that all security details attached to Madam Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, had been withdrawn. This includes both police and DSS personnel, leaving her exposed to threats in the midst of the ongoing leadership crisis,” the aide disclosed.
The official further urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as Lagos State’s Chief Security Officer, to intervene promptly to prevent further escalation and potential threats to law and order.
This development follows a series of disputes within the Lagos Assembly. On January 13, former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was removed from office by 32 out of 40 lawmakers over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of power.
In his place, Mojisola Meranda, who had been Deputy Speaker since June 2023, was elected, becoming the first female Speaker in the history of the Assembly.
However, the transition has been marked by resistance. Obasa challenged his impeachment in court, filing a lawsuit at the Lagos State High Court on February 12 in an attempt to reverse the decision.
The tension escalated further on February 17 when security operatives, including DSS and police officers, sealed off the offices of Speaker Meranda, her deputy, and the Clerk of the House.
“He, the suspended clerk, was politely told by the lawyer of the State Assembly to leave the complex peacefully as the matter is already in court,” an eyewitness revealed.
The move triggered protests from legislative staff, with some accusing security forces of attempting to interfere in the Assembly’s affairs. The blockade led to confrontations between legislative workers and law enforcement officers, intensifying the political standoff.
Amid the turmoil, Olalekan Onafeko, the suspended Clerk of the House, made an unsuccessful attempt to resume office on Wednesday.
He arrived at the Assembly complex with legal representatives and security personnel but was denied access by staff members. Witnesses reported that his arrival was met with resistance, as some workers openly expressed disapproval, leading to his eventual departure from the premises.
