The Lagos State House of Assembly has directed its staff and legislative aides to commence remote work indefinitely, citing safety concerns amid the ongoing leadership crisis within the legislative body.
In an official memo titled “Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement,” Acting Clerk Babatunde Ottun Abubakar instructed all staff under the Lagos State House of Assembly Service Commission (LAHASCOM), including legislative aides, to work from home until further notice.
The decision, according to the memo, is aimed at ensuring the security of personnel and maintaining order amid the escalating leadership conflict.
“To this end, all categories of staff at the Assembly, LAHASCOM, and Legislative Aides are requested to work remotely from home until further notice,” the memo stated.
The Assembly’s leadership dispute erupted on January 13, 2025, when 32 lawmakers voted to remove Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Clerk Olalekan Onafeko.
In their place, former Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda was appointed as Speaker, marking a major shift in the legislative leadership.
The situation intensified when operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS) intervened by sealing key offices within the Assembly complex, effectively halting legislative activities.
Despite these developments, lawmakers reconvened under tense circumstances before ultimately adjourning indefinitely. Meanwhile, three Assembly staff members are currently facing trial for allegedly attacking DSS officials during the crisis.
Refusing to concede defeat, Obasa returned to the Assembly on February 27, backed by security personnel, and reclaimed the Speaker’s office. His supporters have since maintained a presence at the complex, demanding his reinstatement.
In response, Obasa has filed a lawsuit against Speaker Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, contesting the legitimacy of his removal. The case is set for a hearing at the Ikeja Court on March 7, 2025.
In an effort to solidify the transition, Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, issued an official circular recognizing the new leadership.
The directive urged all Assembly staff to cooperate with Speaker Meranda and Acting Clerk Abubakar, reinforcing the administration’s stance on the matter.
