The Lagos State Assembly crisis deepens as Speaker Mojisola Meranda’s police escorts are withdrawn, sparking safety concerns and public outrage

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he ongoing turmoil in the Lagos State House of Assembly intensified on Thursday morning following the sudden withdrawal of all police escorts assigned to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.

Also read: Lagos commissioner Tokunbo Wahab leads environmental advocacy ahead of rainy season

This move has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns over her safety.

Various groups across the state have criticised the decision by police authorities, warning that the lack of security leaves the Speaker vulnerable.

“This woman did not impose herself on the House — her election was a unanimous decision. By removing her security details, they have simply exposed her to unnecessary danger,” a concerned citizen stated.

Women’s rights organisations have described the security withdrawal as an attack on women’s representation in Nigerian politics.

“This is happening because she is a woman. It’s high time those behind this crisis realised they cannot continue to push women down in Nigeria’s political space,” said a leader of the women’s groups.

Another prominent female activist called for national solidarity, urging women across the country to stand with the Speaker.

“Speaker Meranda has shown true leadership, but her male counterparts seem unwilling to accept this. Would they act the same way if she were their daughter?” she asked.

The political unrest began after the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, was removed on January 13, 2025, by an overwhelming majority of the 40-member House over allegations of impropriety and high-handedness. Mojisola Meranda was then unanimously chosen as his successor.

Despite mounting pressure to unseat her, 36 out of 40 House members passed a vote of confidence in Meranda on February 17, 2025, urging her to continue her efforts in serving Lagos State.

As the crisis escalates, public figures and political leaders have warned against the dangerous precedent this conflict sets.

Also read: Lagos Assembly crisis deepens as Speaker Mojisola Meranda’s security withdrawn

“This is not democracy. The Assembly’s decision to stand by their chosen Speaker should be commended, not undermined,” said a senior All Progressives Congress (APC) member.