Crisis Deepens as Obasa Holds Lagos Assembly Plenary With Just Four Lawmakers

Former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa presided over a Lagos State Assembly session on Thursday with only four lawmakers present, as over 26 others boycotted in support of Speaker Mojisola Meranda.

The session happened after security operatives allegedly forced open the chamber doors, allowing Obasa and his loyalists to enter. Meanwhile, the majority of lawmakers gathered outside to reaffirm their support for Meranda, signaling a growing crisis.

One lawmaker, speaking anonymously, rejected Obasa’s leadership, insisting that he was not elected as Speaker by his constituency. The lawmakers also criticized his leadership style, stating that they would not recognize his authority.

Reports also indicated that Obasa’s supporters broke into the Speaker’s office while suspected political thugs occupied key areas of the Assembly complex. These groups allegedly issued threats and blocked access roads with unmarked buses, forcing motorists to find alternative routes.

Reacting to the tension, the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, Stephen Ogundipe, condemned the incident, calling it an embarrassment. He urged lawmakers to resolve leadership disputes through proper channels rather than forceful takeovers.