Power struggle in Lagos Assembly: Experts warn of constitutional crisis

“We are facing a serious constitutional crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, and political maneuvering is likely to persist in the coming days.” – Political Analyst

Lagos, Nigeria – The ongoing political turmoil in the Lagos State House of Assembly has raised concerns among political analysts and legal experts, who warn that the Assembly may be facing a constitutional crisis.

Earlier today, former Speaker Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa and three lawmakers convened a session in the legislative chamber, further intensifying the controversy over the Assembly’s leadership.

Obasa and three other Members held a ‘Sitting’ of the Assembly

In a separate development, Speaker Mojisola Meranda’s security details and escorts were withdrawn early this morning, sparking public concerns over her safety and her standing within the Lagos State Council of Elders.

Addressing the issue, Lagos State Commissioner of Police (CP) Olohundare Moshood Jimoh explained at a press briefing that the withdrawal of police protection was part of an ongoing nationwide personnel and arms audit. He dismissed speculation that the move was politically motivated.

In a shocking twist, Obasa claimed that Speaker Mojisola Meranda had stepped down following a peace meeting at Lagos House in Marina last weekend. He made this assertion during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today. However, there has been no official confirmation from Meranda or the House leadership regarding her alleged resignation.

In what appeared to be an attempt to reassert his influence, Obasa arrived at the Assembly Complex today with three lawmakers and proceeded with a controversial sitting despite the absence of Speaker Meranda and other principal officers.

The session began with an opening prayer, where Obasa prayed for peace, unity, and prosperity in Lagos State and Nigeria. He also thanked his colleagues for their loyalty and commitment.

During the sitting, Obasa raised concerns about power supply issues in the Assembly. He lamented the lack of electricity, which disrupted essential legislative functions, including air conditioning and other electronic devices. In response, he directed the Majority Leader to move a motion for adjournment until power was restored.

However, legitimacy of Obasa’s sitting has sparked serious constitutional concerns, with political analysts suggesting that it may have been a strategic move to challenge the Assembly’s leadership transition and regain control.

Security operatives were seen around the Assembly Complex, indicating growing tensions among lawmakers and staff. Some sources believe the sitting is tied to behind-the-scenes negotiations to resolve the crisis.

Legal Experts’ Opinion

A legal expert who spoke to New Daily Prime emphasized that any sitting held without a proper quorum could be nullified in court. Given that Obasa and his three allies failed to meet the quorum requirement, any resolutions or decisions made during their session hold no legal weight.

“The absence of Speaker Meranda and other key lawmakers raises serious questions about the legality of today’s sitting. If challenged in court, the session could be declared invalid,” the expert stated.

Attempts to reach Obasa and Speaker Meranda for comments were unsuccessful. However, a lawmaker speaking anonymously described the situation as a “test of political will” within the Lagos State House of Assembly.

As the crisis unfolds, Lagos residents and political stakeholders are closely monitoring developments within the Assembly. The question of legitimate leadership remains unresolved, and further political maneuvering is expected in the coming days.

For now, the House of Assembly remains in limbo, awaiting either a decisive resolution or judicial intervention to bring an end to the standoff.