Lagos Assembly Orders Staff to Work from Home Amid Leadership Dispute
In response to the ongoing leadership crisis, the Lagos State House of Assembly has instructed all staff and legislative aides to work remotely until further notice, aiming to prevent potential violence.
Acting Clerk Mr. Babatunde Ottun conveyed this directive in a memo titled “Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement,” emphasizing the necessity of the measure to ensure staff safety and maintain order within the Assembly complex.
The leadership turmoil began in January when 32 lawmakers voted to remove Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and former Clerk Olalekan Onafeko. Obasa’s replacement by his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, has been a focal point of contention. Tensions escalated in February when Department of State Services (DSS) operatives sealed off the Assembly complex, preventing a plenary session. Despite this, lawmakers forced their way into the chambers, held a session, and adjourned indefinitely, declaring a vote of confidence in Meranda.
Three Assembly staff members are currently facing trial for allegedly assaulting DSS operatives during the standoff. Obasa has rejected his removal as unconstitutional and has filed a lawsuit against Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, challenging his removal. The Ikeja Court is scheduled to hear the case on Friday.
Despite the ongoing crisis, Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, has recognized the leadership change and urged staff to support the new Speaker and Acting Clerk.
Ottun reiterated that the remote work directive aims to ensure staff safety and prevent a breakdown of law and order. He assured staff of Speaker Meranda’s commitment to their safety and a peaceful resolution of the crisis.
