Workers in the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday, protested against alleged plans to remove recently sworn in Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.
The workers clashed with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), who stormed the assembly in the early hours, sealing off Meranda’s office, alongside that of her deputy and the clerk.
Armed security personnel took over the complex at Alausa, Ikeja, leading to palpable tension among lawmakers and workers.
The ongoing turmoil follows the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker on January 13, over alleged abuse of office and corruption. Obasa has since challenged his removal in court, naming the Lagos State House of Assembly and Speaker Meranda as defendants.
Amid reports of Obasa’s possible reinstatement, the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in the state remains divided. The party’s highest decision-making body, the GAC, recently held a marathon meeting on the matter.
Images from the assembly complex around 11:15 a.m. showed Meranda arriving with tight security as legislative workers chanted “Madam Speaker ! We want you !” in solidarity. The visibly emotional Speaker was escorted by her security team through the tense atmosphere.
Inside the chamber, DSS officials, dressed in black jackets and helmets, clashed with the workers at the door, leading to a chaotic scene.
The Speaker was however able to preside over plenary when calm returned.
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