Don’t meddle, Obasa’s removal a constitutional decision – Ogundipe

The Lagos State House of Assembly has reiterated resolve to stand by their Speaker Rt. Hon Mojisola Meranda, while urging external forces not to interfere in their matter. Counselling that the institution’s enshrined constitutional independence be allowed in all ramification, Hon Stephen Ogundipe in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen on Thursday night, maintained that the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa stands, as all constitutional procedures were duly followed to effect it.

The lawmaker who also cleared the air on what transpired at the Lagos Command of Department of State Services (DSS) office in Shaginsha, where he claimed members of Lagos State House of Assembly went to honour an invitation. He stated that, “We visited the DSS to provide insights into the situation on the removal of the ex-speaker.”

On those that were earlier detained following a petition said to have been written and sent to the DSS by the former speaker-Obasa, Ogundipe stressed that they were eventually released.

“All members of the Assembly earlier detained have now regained their freedom.

“At the DSS office, we reaffirmed our commitment to upholding constitutional governance following the removal of the former Speaker.

“The decision was made in accordance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Powers and Privileges Act, which empower the State Assembly to regulate its internal proceedings without external interference.

“Sections 92 and 96, outline the process for the election and removal of the Speaker, and due process was followed in our decision.

“It is also in public knowledge that legislative autonomy was granted to State Assemblies, ensuring that elected representatives can conduct their business freely within the chambers assigned to them.

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He maintained further that an attempt to challenge their lawful action will clearly undermine an authority constitutionally granted to the state legislature.

“The Lagos State House of Assembly, as an independent arm of government, has exercised its constitutional duty in the best interest of the people of Lagos.

“The decision to remove the former Speaker was made through a democratic process, with the required majority as stipulated by law.

“Any attempt to challenge this lawful action undermines the authority granted to us by the Nigerian Constitution.

The Assembly however, appreciated the professional conduct of the DSS throughout the whole engagement with members.

“We commend the professionalism of the DSS office in their friendly invitation. We appreciate the Lagos DSS Command, especially the Director, for ensuring a smooth and respectful engagement. The process allowed us to give a clear recount of events in a comfortable and professional environment.

“We reiterate our commitment to legislative duties that serve the interests of Lagosians, ensuring effective governance and the continued development of the state.

“We call on all stakeholders, including the executive arm and the public, to respect the sanctity of legislative proceedings and refrain from undue interference.”