Speaker Meranda slams Obasa’s actions as ‘show of shame’

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, has denounced the actions of the ousted Speaker Mudashiru Obasa as a "show of shame" following an incident that occurred at the Assembly complex on Thursday.

On Thursday, Obasa and his security personnel infiltrated the assembly complex and accessed the Speaker’s Office.

He also chaired a four-man parliament subsequent to initiating legal action against the state government and the assembly regarding what he described as his unlawful removal.

In statements made to journalists following the court hearing at the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja on Friday, Meranda stressed that the legal proceedings were merely in their infancy, urging all parties to permit the legal teams to handle the situation.

"This is indeed merely the beginning. Similar to the events that transpired there, both parties have their representatives, and I believe we should allow the legal team to perform their responsibilities," she stated.

Meranda also addressed the recent disturbance when Obasa entered the Assembly complex, indicating that while Obasa remains a member of the Assembly and possesses the right to enter, his breach of her office was intolerable.

"I contend that he is still a member of the House of Assembly, so he is entitled to come, but the intrusion and unauthorized entry into my office is quite significant," she remarked.

She characterized Obasa's assembly with four legislators as a "show of shame," emphasizing that a quorum in the Assembly necessitates a larger number of members.

"We possess the numbers required to constitute a quorum, thus sitting with just three or four members equates to mere theatrics," she commented.

The Speaker further indicated that although her previously withdrawn security detail had been reinstated, this arrangement contrasted with her typical level of protection.

"I currently have three or four police officers, whereas my usual security detail consists of 12 police officers, four DSS personnel, and two anti-bomb units. However, I do not have that level of protection this morning," she noted.

The Assembly’s spokesperson, Olukayode Ogundipe, who also addressed the press after the court hearing, stated, "We are unequivocal regarding this matter. We have witnessed what transpired here; it was a show of shame. Even when inquiries were posed, we noted the responses being provided. He is the one who litigated against us. Moreover, the theatrical display by his legal representatives in court today is regrettable, but we will confront the situation when the time comes. "

Ogundipe additionally emphasized the support Meranda garners within the Assembly, highlighting that 35 lawmakers, including Meranda herself, stand united in their backing of her leadership.