The Lagos State House of Assembly has instructed all staff and legislative aides to work remotely indefinitely due to the ongoing leadership crisis within the legislature.
The directive, issued by Acting Clerk Babatunde Ottun, was communicated through a memo titled “Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement” on Sunday.
Recall that the crisis began in January when 32 lawmakers voted to remove Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and ex-Clerk Olalekan Onafeko. Following his removal, Obasa resumed duties, leading to heightened tensions as his supporters besieged the Assembly, demanding his reinstatement.
Mr. Obasa was replaced by his former deputy, Mojisola Meranda, as the new Speaker.
The crisis intensified on 17 February when SSS operatives sealed off the Assembly complex, preventing a plenary session.
In spite of this, lawmakers forced their way into the chambers, held a session, and adjourned indefinitely, declaring a vote of confidence in Ms. Meranda.
Meanwhile, three Assembly staff members face trial for allegedly assaulting SSS operatives during the standoff.
Mr. Obasa rejected his removal as unconstitutional. On 27 February, he stormed the Assembly complex with heavy security, allegedly breaking into the Speaker’s office.
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In response, Obasa has filed a lawsuit against Speaker Mojisola Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, challenging his removal. The case is scheduled for a hearing at the Ikeja Court on Friday.
Despite the ongoing turmoil, Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, has recognized the leadership change and urged Assembly staff to support the new Speaker and Acting Clerk.
Mr. Ottun emphasized that the remote work directive is necessary to ensure staff safety and maintain order.
He stated, “This directive is necessary pending the resolution of the leadership dispute. All staff at the Assembly, LAHASCOM, and Legislative Aides are requested to work remotely until further notice.”
He also reassured staff of Speaker Tobun’s commitment to their safety and a peaceful resolution of the crisis.
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