The Lagos State House of Assembly has implemented a directive for all staff and legislative aides to work remotely until further notice due to an ongoing leadership crisis within the legislative arm. The Acting Clerk of the Assembly, Babatunde Abubakar, issued the directive in a memo to ensure the safety of staff and prevent potential violence arising from the leadership dispute.
The memo titled “Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement” requests all categories of staff at the Assembly, LAHASCOM, and legislative aides to work from home until further notice. This decision aims to maintain a safe working environment amidst the crisis.
The memo also highlights the new Speaker, Mojisola Meranda’s commitment to staff safety and a peaceful resolution of the crisis. The Assembly has been experiencing turmoil since the removal of former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and ex-Clerk, Olalekan Onafeko, by 32 lawmakers on January 13, 2025. Meranda was appointed as the new Speaker following Obasa’s removal.
The situation escalated when the Department of State Services sealed off the Assembly complex, leading to lawmakers forcing their way into the chambers under tense circumstances to hold a session. Amidst the crisis, three Assembly staff members are facing trial for allegedly assaulting DSS operatives during the standoff.
Obasa, who contests his removal as unconstitutional, made a dramatic return to the Assembly complex with heavy security, resuming his duties. His supporters have been demanding his reinstatement and have created a tense atmosphere around the Assembly.
In response to the crisis, Bode Agoro, the Lagos State Head of Service, issued a circular recognizing the leadership change and urged staff to support the new Speaker and Acting Clerk. The legal battle between Obasa and the Assembly continues, with a court date set for the hearing of the case on March 7, 2025.