Security Concerns as Police Withdraw Escorts in Lagos

Lagos Speaker’s Safety in Question After Escort Withdrawal

In a recent development, all police escorts assigned to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda, as well as those securing the Assembly complex, have been withdrawn with immediate effect. This action has left both the Speaker and the legislative premises without official security protection.

The Speaker’s Special Adviser on Information, Mr. Victor Ganzallo, expressed deep concern over this abrupt withdrawal, stating, “As we speak, all security has been withdrawn from the Speaker, and she is now on her own.” He emphasized that this situation renders the Speaker “vulnerable and open to attack,” highlighting the urgent need to address the security lapse. As of now, the Lagos State Police Command and the state government have not issued official statements regarding the reasons behind this development.

This security concern arises amidst ongoing tensions within the Lagos State House of Assembly. On January 13, 2025, former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was removed from his position by 32 out of 40 Assembly members, leading to the election of Mojisola Meranda as the new Speaker. Despite interventions from prominent figures, including President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sanwo-Olu, efforts to resolve the leadership dispute have yet to yield positive results.

The situation escalated further when Olalekan Onafeko, the suspended Clerk of the House, attempted to resume duties at the Assembly complex but was turned away by security personnel. This incident underscores the prevailing unrest within the Assembly.