By Abigail Philip David
All security personnel assigned to Speaker Mojisola Meranda of the Lagos State House of Assembly have been withdrawn, The Press has learned.
As of Thursday morning, police officers and other security aides attached to Meranda were removed, though it remains unclear who authorized the decision. A source close to the Speaker confirmed the development, expressing concerns about her vulnerability.
“The Speaker no longer has any security aides. This applies to all security personnel assigned to the House of Assembly as well,” the source stated.
This development comes amid speculation that Meranda may step down as Speaker. The crisis follows interventions from top All Progressives Congress (APC) figures, including former Osun and Ogun State Governors, Chief Bisi Akande and Aremo Olusegun Osoba.
The duo led a mediation panel that met with key stakeholders at the Governor’s Lodge in Marina on Sunday. Reports suggest the panel recommended the resignation of Mudashiru Obasa, with Meranda also expected to step down in favor of a new lawmaker from Lagos West.
Confirming the withdrawal of security personnel, Meranda’s spokesperson, Ganzallo Victor, stated: “We don’t know why this decision was made, but all her police officers and security aides have been withdrawn. She is currently without protection.”
Meanwhile, a source from Obasa’s camp revealed that security aides assigned to Obasa have now been reinstated.
“All of Obasa’s security details were restored as of this morning,” the source said.
