The leadership crisis at the Lagos State House of Assembly took a dramatic turn on Monday when operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian police invaded the Assembly complex in Ikeja.
The security forces arrived in large numbers and sealed off key offices, including those of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and the Clerk of the House.
Despite the chaos, Mojisola Meranda, who was recently elected as Speaker, presided over the legislative session later in the day. She arrived at the Assembly complex surrounded by a large crowd of supporters who cheered as she walked confidently into the legislative chambers.
A clip of the event shows Meranda seated at the front, leading the plenary session as Speaker.
The crisis began after the recent impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
His removal from office led to tension within the corridors of power in Lagos. Obasa, who was outside the country when he was impeached, has already challenged the decision in court. He has filed a motion at the Ikeja High Court, requesting a speedy hearing of his case.
In his lawsuit, Obasa argues that his impeachment was illegal. His legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Chief Afolabi Fashanu, has named the Lagos State House of Assembly and Speaker Mojisola Meranda as defendants. Obasa is asking the court to overturn his removal and reinstate him as Speaker.
POLITICS NIGERIA reported that there were security operatives on Monday morning at the Assembly. Witnesses reported that DSS officers arrived at about 10 a.m. and took control of the premises. Lawmakers and staff were temporarily restricted from accessing their offices.
