- Pass vote of confidence on Speaker Meranda
Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have described the invasion of the Assembly complex by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police on Monday, as a “rape of democracy, an aberration, and a national embarrassment.”
During a plenary session attended by 36 members, the lawmakers demanded an explanation from the Lagos State Director of DSS regarding the reasons behind the invasion.
They also called on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to investigate the incident and provide the public with a comprehensive briefing on the findings. Additionally, the Assembly urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene immediately and prevent the situation from escalating further.
Expressing their outrage, the lawmakers unanimously condemned the invasion, describing it as an abuse of legislative procedure and a threat to democratic governance.
Speaking during the session, Hon. Abiodun Tobun said: “This is not a government ruled by the barrel of a gun. This is an aberration of democracy and a step toward anarchy. What happened today is a total embarrassment and an act of harassment.”
He further affirmed the lawmakers’ loyalty to the Speaker, saying: “Nobody can dictate to us. God chooses and removes leaders. We are solidly behind your leadership, Mr. Speaker—nobody can remove you.”
The lawmakers suggested that powerful and influential individuals or groups might be behind the incident, calling for a thorough investigation to uncover those responsible.
The House remained united in its stance, insisting on protecting the independence of the legislature and ensuring that such actions do not undermine democratic processes in the state.
Meanwhile, the State Assembly passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Mojisola Meranda, dispelling speculation about her possible resignation.
During Monday’s plenary session, Oladipo Ajomale, representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 2, moved the motion affirming the assembly’s trust in Meranda’s leadership. This comes amid heightened security presence at the assembly complex in Ikeja, as rumours swirled about her potential exit.
Despite the tense atmosphere, with a deployment of police and task force personnel surrounding the premises early Monday morning, Meranda received a warm welcome upon arriving at the assembly complex, greeted by cheers and applause from lawmakers and staff.
“Madam speaker… madam speaker,” they chanted as she walked in with a confident smile, acknowledging the support while flanked by her security detail.
Meranda was elected as the first female speaker of the Lagos legislature on January 13, 2025, following the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa. Her appointment led to the dissolution of all principal positions and committees within the house.
However, Obasa, upon returning to Nigeria, challenged the legitimacy of his removal, insisting due process was not followed and maintaining that he remained the rightful speaker.
With the assembly’s latest show of support for Meranda, the unfolding power struggle within the Lagos legislature remains a developing story.
