Lagos Assembly Turmoil: IPAC Urges Obasa to Respect Democratic Process
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Lagos State has called on the impeached Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, to step aside and allow peace to reign in the state legislature.
In a statement to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, Lagos State IPAC Chairperson, Mrs. Temilola Akinade, expressed deep concern over the ongoing leadership crisis, urging Obasa to respect the decision of the majority.
WATCH OUR LATEST VIDEO FOR MORE INSIGHT
The leadership dispute began on January 13 when 32 out of the 40-member Assembly voted to remove Obasa and replace him with Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda. The crisis took a dramatic turn on Monday when operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and armed police officers sealed the offices of the new Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, and the legislative chamber, disrupting parliamentary proceedings.
Akinade described the intervention of security forces in the Assembly as an embarrassment to Lagos State and a threat to democratic governance.
“The Lagos State House of Assembly has long been regarded as a model of legislative excellence, and this ongoing crisis is unacceptable,” she said. “IPAC will no longer tolerate distractions that undermine democratic institutions.”
She further called on Obasa to accept his removal in good faith and allow Meranda to continue in office without further disruptions.
“The former Speaker has served Lagos State to the best of his ability. It is time for him to step aside and allow the will of the majority to prevail,” Akinade asserted. “The law clearly states that lawmakers have the power to elect their leader, and the overwhelming majority have chosen Mojisola Meranda.”
Akinade also lamented the toll the crisis has taken on the new Speaker, stating that the psychological and emotional strain on Meranda could hinder her ability to function effectively.
“The new Speaker is facing undue pressure and stress due to the ongoing tension. This must end for her to focus on her responsibilities,” she said. “For more than two-thirds of the Assembly to support her leadership, it is evident she has legitimacy. Video evidence and firsthand accounts show that both lawmakers and Assembly staff believe in her leadership.”
The IPAC leader warned against allowing personal or factional interests to undermine democratic processes in the state, emphasizing the need for stability within the legislature.
As the crisis deepens, political observers are urging all stakeholders to prioritize the rule of law and democratic principles in resolving the impasse. Meanwhile, Lagos residents are left watching the power struggle unfold, raising concerns about the impact on governance and legislative duties.
Reference
Lagos Assembly Turmoil: IPAC Urges Obasa to Respect Democratic Process