The Lagos State House of Assembly has dismissed reports claiming that 27 lawmakers from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have defected to the opposition Labour Party (LP).
Ogundipe Olukayode, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, described the reports as false and misleading.
“These events in no way suggest any intention by members to leave the party. We emphasize, without ambiguity, that no member of the Assembly is contemplating defection,” the Assembly stated.
The lawmakers reaffirmed their loyalty to the APC, insisting that the party remains united and focused on fulfilling its mandate to the people of Lagos State. According to the Assembly, the rumors were spread by “agents of destabilization” attempting to create unnecessary tension and division.
Leadership Crisis in the Assembly
The denial comes amid a leadership crisis that has engulfed the Lagos State House of Assembly following the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker and the subsequent election of Mojisola Meranda.
Earlier in the week, armed security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) reportedly stormed the Assembly chambers, allegedly to prevent Meranda from assuming office. Hours later, she gained access and presided over plenary, visibly emotional as lawmakers loyal to her passed a vote of confidence in her leadership.
Obasa, who insists that his removal was not in line with due process, has taken legal action to challenge his ouster. The Assembly, however, maintains that the leadership change was an internal affair, free from external interference.
Political Tension in Lagos
The crisis in the Lagos Assembly has been described as one of the most significant political upheavals in the country. With rumors of defection and legal battles looming, political observers are watching closely to see how the situation unfolds.