Armed security personnel have cordoned off the Lagos State House of Assembly complex in Alausa, Ikeja, as tensions rise ahead of an emergency plenary session scheduled for Monday, March 3, 2025.
The increased security presence, which has been noticeable for the past two weeks, reached its peak early on Monday morning, sparking rumors of a potential leadership change within the Assembly.
Sources suggest that Mojisola Meranda, the newly elected Speaker, may tender her resignation as part of a broader zoning arrangement aimed at positioning a candidate from the West zone in the leadership role. The speculation has added to the already charged atmosphere at the complex.
The scene outside the Assembly was dominated by operatives from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and heavily armed police officers, who took up strategic positions around the premises. Visitors and staff were subjected to thorough security checks, leading to significant delays in gaining access to the building. One anonymous staff member described the situation as tense, saying, “It was difficult to get into the Assembly this morning. It took me over an hour to be granted access.”
This leadership turmoil at the Lagos State Assembly has triggered high-level political intervention. Over the weekend, President Bola Tinubu and senior members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) were reportedly involved in negotiations to address the crisis, culminating in the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Sources indicate that Obasa was allowed to resign rather than face a forced removal.
Key APC figures, including former National Chairman Bisi Akande, ex-Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba, and Minister of Solid Minerals Dele Alake, are said to have played a crucial role in discussions aimed at managing the situation and averting further political unrest.
As lawmakers gather for the emergency session, all eyes are now on the Assembly to witness how the leadership transition will unfold and what impact it will have on the political landscape in Lagos State. The unfolding drama continues to capture the attention of both local and national observers.
