Amid rumours of her resignation, members of the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Mojisola Meranda, reinforcing their trust in her leadership.
The motion was moved by Oladipo Ajomale, representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 2, who affirmed the assembly’s support for Meranda’s stewardship.
Earlier in the day, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigeria Police stormed the State House of Assembly, sealing the offices of the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk. The unexpected invasion disrupted the commencement of the day’s plenary session.
Despite the disruption, lawmakers forced their way into the chamber at about 12:30 pm, supported by assembly workers. The DSS operatives were later seen inside the chamber, engaging in a physical confrontation with legislative staff at the exit door.
This development follows the controversial removal of the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, by 32 out of 40 assembly members on January 13, 2025. Obasa, who was in the United States at the time of his removal, described the situation as a “coup,” a sentiment echoed by President Bola Tinubu.
Obasa has since filed a lawsuit at the Ikeja High Court, challenging the legality of his removal and seeking accelerated hearing of the case. The suit, filed on February 12, 2025, names the Lagos State House of Assembly and Speaker Meranda as defendants.
The crisis has also caused division within the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the apex political decision-making body of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, with members taking opposing stances on Obasa’s ouster.
Amid the ongoing tensions, Meranda presided over Monday’s plenary session, signalling her determination to continue her leadership despite the challenges.
