Some lawmakers of the Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday berated the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state following the resumption of embattled Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.
The lawmakers described Obasa’s return as a charade and an embarrassment that must stop.
In January, members of the Assembly impeached Obasa over allegations of misconduct and misappropriation.
Following his removal, his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was sworn in as the new Speaker.
However, Obasa contested the action, arguing that his removal did not follow due process.
On Thursday, the embattled lawmaker stormed the Assembly complex, declaring that he had resumed as Speaker because he was never legally removed.
The lawmakers, however, insisted that the APC leadership in the state must explain why Obasa returned as Speaker despite urging them to remain calm.
Addressing journalists within the complex, the lawmakers said:
“We appreciate the press for carrying out your duties despite all intimidations. You are here, you still see us—this is Lagos, and this is the Lagos State House of Assembly.
“We were approached by our leaders to remain calm and take things easy, but we were shocked to see what is happening today. We are still expecting them to come and tell us where we went wrong or what really went wrong.
“We won’t take the law into our hands, just as I told the staff not to do so. But we all represent different constituencies and have our mandates.
“Whatever happens, the leadership should engage with us directly and not subject us to this charade. We are not happy with what is happening, especially considering that this is Lagos—The Centre of Excellence—where everything starts and stops.
“We have been law-abiding and have not acted against the state or anyone. But we also demand respect, dignity, and recognition as elected representatives.
“I’m appealing to our party leadership: we can’t continue this way. You can see us. They have taken us to court, but what we are witnessing today is a charade—it is uncalled for.
“It is an embarrassment. When I arrived at the gate, security operatives stopped me and told me I couldn’t enter the House of Assembly.
“This must stop. We have made it clear that we are not against the leadership’s decision, but they should call us and speak to us directly—not leave us to hear rumours.