The political landscape of Lagos State has never witnessed such turbulence as the ongoing crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly. It is deeply concerning that despite his lawful removal from office by an overwhelming two-thirds majority, former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa continues to preside over legislative proceedings with the backing of security personnel under the supervision of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Moshood Jimoh.
It is imperative to reiterate that Obasa is no longer the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. His removal was executed in strict adherence to democratic principles, reflecting the collective will of the Assembly members.
However, the recent withdrawal of security aides attached to the newly elected Speaker, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, while reinstating those of Obasa, is not only undemocratic but also a direct assault on the rule of law.
This selective enforcement of security privileges by the police raises serious concerns about impartiality within the Nigerian Police Force. By restoring Obasa’s security aides without a court order while stripping Speaker Meranda of hers, the police appear to be taking sides in a legislative matter that should be resolved within the bounds of the law. This blatant disregard for due process undermines democratic governance and prompts a critical question: Who is backing Obasa?
Meranda’s emergence as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly is a historic milestone. Her leadership provides an opportunity for Lagos State to champion inclusivity and excellence in governance. Ensuring a smooth transition of power will not only reinforce legislative stability but also support Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu in fulfilling his mandate to the people of Lagos.
The events of February 27, 2025, have cast a shadow over the integrity of the Assembly, threatening political stability in the state. Obasa’s attempt to reclaim the Speakership through force undermines the legislative institution’s authority and disrupts the democratic process. It is, therefore, imperative that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria intervenes to safeguard the rule of law.
Furthermore, reports indicating the withdrawal of security aides from prominent traditional rulers, including Oba Gbolahan Oniru and Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, suggest a broader political maneuver that could have far-reaching consequences. If these reports are accurate, they risk triggering instability in Lagos State’s governance structure.
In response, the Assembly of Lagos Youths, representing the indigenous communities of the state, is committed to defending democratic principles and ensuring that due process prevails. Obasa’s defiance signals a larger agenda—one that could ultimately destabilize the Sanwo-Olu administration and shift the political dynamics of Lagos State to suit external influences. The Ibile Eko Youths, representing the five divisions of Lagos (Epe, Badagry, Ikorodu, Ikeja, and Lagos Island), will not stand idly by as democracy is undermined.
We, therefore, call on all relevant stakeholders—including the Presidency, the Inspector General of Police, and well-meaning Nigerians—to intervene and uphold democratic norms in Lagos State. The will of the people, as expressed through their elected representatives, must be respected, and any attempt to subvert democracy must be firmly resisted.
