By Mary Onyia
In a bid to prevent any potential disruptions and ensure the safety of all personnel, the management of the Lagos State House of Assembly has instructed all staff to work from home until further notice.
This directive follows the ongoing political unrest surrounding the removal of the former speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.
In a memo titled ‘Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement’, addressed to all staff and legislative aides, the Acting Clerk of the Assembly, Mr. Babatunde Abubakar, explained that the decision was made to “guarantee safety and forestall any unwarranted consequences.”
Abubakar wrote: “I am writing to communicate the approval of the House leadership to implement changes to the remote work arrangement until the current leadership crisis is resolved, ensuring the safety of all involved.”
He continued: “All categories of staff, including those from LAHASCOM and legislative aides, are hereby requested to work remotely until further notice.”
The memo further referenced the Head of Service (HOS) Circular 005 issued on January 15, 2025, which affirmed the leadership change in the House and the appointment of Mr. A.T.B. Ottun as Acting Clerk. The safety measures were deemed necessary due to the ongoing political tension.
“Please note that officers are expected to maintain open communication lines and be available for any assignments as needed,” the memo added.
Princess Mojisola Meranda, who was elected Speaker after Obasa’s removal, has reaffirmed her commitment to the safety and peaceful resolution of the crisis.
The political turmoil in the Lagos State Assembly began when Mudashiru Obasa was ousted as Speaker following a vote by more than two-thirds of the House, over allegations of misconduct and other offenses. Despite his removal, Obasa attempted to resume work on January 13, 2025, and arrived at the Assembly complex on January 16, 2025, accompanied by his supporters. This led to chaos and clashes, with Obasa’s supporters chanting songs of solidarity.
Princess Mojisola Meranda, Obasa’s former deputy, was immediately elected the new Speaker, making history as the first female Speaker in Lagos. However, efforts by the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) to resolve the conflict have so far been unsuccessful, as Meranda’s supporters firmly insist on her legitimacy as Speaker.
It remains to be seen how the ruling party will address the issue and bring a resolution that pacifies all factions involved.