The Lagos State House of Assembly has instructed all staff and legislative aides to work remotely indefinitely in response to the ongoing leadership crisis.
The directive, issued by Acting Clerk Mr. Babatunde Ottun, aims to mitigate potential violence and ensure the safety of staff.
In a memo titled “Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement,” Ottun communicated the decision to all Assembly personnel on Sunday.
The move follows a leadership crisis that erupted in January when 32 lawmakers ousted Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and former Clerk Olalekan Onafeko. Obasa’s deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was subsequently appointed the new Speaker.
The situation escalated on February 17 when operatives from the Department of State Services sealed off the Assembly complex, halting a planned plenary session.
Despite this, a group of lawmakers gained access to the chambers, held a session, and adjourned indefinitely while expressing their support for Meranda.
READ ALSO : Obasa storms Lagos Assembly amid leadership crisis
Amidst the unrest, three Assembly staff members have been charged with assaulting DSS operatives during the standoff.
On February 27, Obasa returned to the Assembly complex with heavy security, allegedly breaking into the Speaker’s office and resuming his duties, with his supporters demanding his reinstatement.
Obasa has filed a lawsuit against Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, contesting his removal. The case is scheduled for a hearing on Friday at the Ikeja Court.
Despite the turmoil, Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, has acknowledged the leadership change and urged staff to support Meranda and Ottun.
Ottun explained that the remote work directive is necessary to maintain staff safety and prevent disorder, as the leadership dispute remains unresolved.
“All staff at the Assembly, LAHASCOM, and Legislative Aides are requested to work remotely until further notice,” Ottun stated, assuring staff of Speaker Meranda’s commitment to their safety and the peaceful resolution of the crisis.
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