By Abigail Philip David
Security personnel, including policemen, conducted thorough screenings of journalists and other individuals attempting to enter the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday ahead of the scheduled plenary session.
Our correspondent observed three police vehicles stationed at the assembly’s main gate, with additional security vehicles positioned inside the complex. Journalists were subjected to identity checks at the second gate, while others without proper identification were denied entry.
The heightened security measures follow recent tensions within the assembly after the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Over the weekend, Obasa asserted that he remains the Speaker until due process is followed to officially unseat him.
The plenary session marks the lawmakers’ first meeting since the controversial leadership change. Obasa was removed on January 13, 2025, by a majority of the lawmakers, who accused him of misconduct and financial misappropriation. He was replaced by his deputy, Mojisola Meranda.
In a show of unity, lawmakers were recently seen taking photos together within the assembly complex, notably without Obasa.
Speaking to journalists and supporters at Ikeja GRA on Saturday, Obasa denied the allegations against him and challenged the lawmakers to provide evidence of their claims.
“If you want to claim that I’m corrupt, please prove it, let us see it,” he said during a gathering at the Speaker’s Lodge.
The ongoing leadership tussle has drawn significant public attention, with observers watching closely to see how the situation unfolds in the coming days.
