The Lagos State House of Assembly has directed all staff and legislative aides to work remotely indefinitely, in order to prevent potential violence from the ongoing leadership crisis.
This development was revealed in a statement issued by Acting Clerk of the house, Babatunde Ottun, in Lagos on Sunday.
9News Nigeria reports that the memo is titled ‘Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement’.
The crisis began after 32 lawmakers removed Mudashiru Obasa and ex-Clerk Olalekan Onafeko in January, replacing the former speaker by his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, as the new Speaker.
It intensified on February 17 when DSS operatives sealed off the Assembly complex, preventing a plenary session.
In spite of this, lawmakers forced their way into the chambers, held a session, and adjourned indefinitely, declaring a vote of confidence in Meranda.
Meanwhile, three Assembly staff members face trial for allegedly assaulting DSS operatives during the standoff.
Obasa rejected his removal as unconstitutional. On February 27, he stormed the Assembly complex with heavy security, allegedly breaking into the Speaker’s office.
He resumed duties, and his supporters also besieged the Assembly, demanding his reinstatement, as Obasa filed a lawsuit against Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, challenging his removal, while the Ikeja Court is scheduled to hear the case on Friday.
In spite of the ongoing crisis, Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, recognised the leadership change and urged staff to support the new Speaker and Acting Clerk.
Ottun explained that the directive aims to ensure staff safety and prevent a breakdown of law and order.
He said, “This directive is necessary pending the resolution of the leadership dispute.
“All staff at the Assembly, LAHASCOM, and Legislative Aides are requested to work remotely until further notice.”
Ottun therefore assured staff of Speaker Meranda’s commitment to their safety and a peaceful resolution of the crisis.
