NB247
The controversies raised by the removal Hon Obasa As Speaker has yet to abate, as security operatives on Monday took over the Lagos House of Assembly Complex.
The plenary scheduled for Monday morning at the Assembly was kept on hold due to the presence of the security officials.
The operatives comprised men of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Police Force.
Eyewitnesses say the operatives sealed off the offices of Speaker Mojisola Meranda, her deputy, and the Clerk of the House.
It was gathered that the action followed a legal suit by the outside Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, concerning the interpretation of several constitutional provisions and the legitimacy of the Lagos State House of Assembly’s proceedings.
The application challenges the constitutionality of the sitting held on January 13, 2025, in which Hon. Obasa was impeached.
The suit contends that the sitting violated constitutional and legislative procedures, including the absence of a formal reconvening of the House by the Speaker or an authorized representative.
It also argues that the session took place during a recess without the necessary legal steps to reconvene the House.
The application urges that the case be heard promptly to avoid disruptions to legislative activities in the state.
The claimant, who is the ousted Speaker, seeks expedited hearing to address the legality of the ongoing sitting under the current leadership, asserting that it is crucial to resolve the issue swiftly in the public interest.
He further requested the court to shorten the time for the defendants to respond to the summons and for the claimant to file any necessary replies, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
The court has been asked to grant accelerated hearing and expedite the proceedings in the interest of justice.
In a statement, Hon Obasa, the applicant, affirmed that granting the application would not prejudice any party or result in injustice.