Lawmakers in the Lagos State House of Assembly have passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Mojisola Meranda, rejecting any attempt to reinstate former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
The decision, made during Monday’s plenary session, comes amid growing tension and a security clampdown at the Assembly complex in Alausa, Ikeja. Armed operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) had earlier stormed the premises, sealing off Meranda’s office, along with those of her deputy and the Clerk of the House.
Despite the security lockdown, Meranda presided over the session, which saw lawmakers affirm their trust in her leadership.
Legislative Workers Protest Against Meranda’s Removal
Before the plenary session, a large group of legislative workers gathered in protest against alleged plans to remove Meranda. Chanting slogans such as “Meranda we want! Meranda we want!”, the workers expressed their support for the first female Speaker of the Assembly.
“The attempt to remove Meranda is unfair and politically motivated,” one protesting worker told Daily Trust. “We will not allow anyone to undermine the Assembly’s decision.”
The protest led to clashes between the workers and DSS operatives, who struggled to maintain control of the Assembly entrance. Video footage from the scene showed DSS officers in black jackets and helmets confronting the workers as they tried to enter the chamber.
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Plenary Session Amid Tight Security
Meranda arrived at the Assembly complex around 11:15 a.m., flanked by heavy security. Despite the tension, she made her way into the chamber, where lawmakers later forced their entry around 12:30 p.m. with the help of legislative workers.
Inside the chamber, 32 lawmakers attended the session, during which a motion was moved to express confidence in Meranda’s leadership.
“Madam Speaker, all members standing before you, I move a motion to say that we do pass the vote of confidence on Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda,” a lawmaker declared.
The motion received unanimous support from all lawmakers present.
Obasa’s Impeachment Still Contested
Monday’s drama is the latest chapter in the political crisis that began with the impeachment of Obasa on January 13 over allegations of abuse of office and corruption.
Obasa has refused to accept his removal and has taken legal action against the Assembly. Last week, he filed a suit at the Lagos State High Court, challenging the legality of his impeachment and seeking an expedited hearing.
There have been speculations that some political leaders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) are pushing for Obasa’s reinstatement. However, Monday’s vote of confidence in Meranda indicates that the majority of lawmakers are unwilling to reverse their decision.
What’s Next for the Lagos Assembly?
With the lawmakers standing firmly behind Meranda, the battle for the Lagos Assembly’s leadership is far from over. Security remains tight at the complex, and the outcome of Obasa’s court case could determine the next phase of the political crisis.
For now, Speaker Meranda appears to have the backing of the Assembly, but whether external political forces will allow her to continue in office remains uncertain.