Bunady
The leadership crisis, which has caused tensions among lawmakers, has raised concerns over security within the Assembly complex....READ ORIGINAL & FULL CONTENT FROM SOURCE | READ ORIGINAL & FULL CONTENT FROM SOURCE...
The Lagos State House of Assembly has directed all staff and legislative aides to work remotely indefinitely in a bid to prevent potential violence stemming from the ongoing leadership crisis within the Assembly.
The directive was issued by the Acting Clerk of the House, Mr. Babatunde Ottun, through an internal memo on Sunday.
The memo, titled “Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement,” officially informed staff members of the remote work order.
The leadership crisis, which has caused tensions among lawmakers, has raised concerns over security within the Assembly complex.
Legislative activities are expected to continue remotely, though it remains uncertain how long the directive will last.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the crisis erupted in January when lawmakers ousted Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and former Clerk Olalekan Onafeko.
Obasa’s former deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was named the new Speaker.
Tensions escalated on February 17 when DSS operatives sealed off the Assembly complex, blocking a planned plenary session.
Despite the lockdown, lawmakers forced their way into the chambers, convened a session, and adjourned indefinitely, reaffirming their support for Meranda.
Three Assembly staff members now face trial for allegedly assaulting DSS operatives during the standoff.
Obasa, rejecting his removal as unconstitutional, stormed the Assembly complex on February 27 with heavy security, allegedly breaking into the Speaker’s office. He resumed duties while his supporters gathered outside, demanding his reinstatement.
He has since filed a lawsuit against Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, challenging his ouster. The case is set for a hearing at the Ikeja Court on Friday.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, has acknowledged the leadership change, urging staff to support the new Speaker and Acting Clerk.
Ottun explained that the directive aims to ensure staff safety and maintain order.
“This measure is necessary pending the resolution of the leadership dispute,” he said.
All Assembly staff, including those in LAHASCOM and legislative aides, have been directed to work remotely until further notice.
Ottun assured staff of Speaker Meranda’s commitment to their safety and a peaceful resolution of the crisis.
