- Safiu Kehinde
A coalition group under the aegis of Lovers of Lagos has applauded the Lagos State House of Assembly for upholding legislative independence and standing firmly with its Speaker, Hon.Mojisola Meranda, despite reported arrests by the Department of State Services (DSS) and alleged intervention by party leaders.
The group, comprising concerned Lagos residents and political observers, heaped praises on the members of the Assembly for their defense of the removal of former Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
This was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the coalition group’s General Secretary, Moyo Odunlami.
Lovers of Lagos recounted how the lawmakers had ousted Obasa in a process they held was carried out lawfully, in strict compliance with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Powers and Privileges Act.
The group recalled how the lawmakers, citing Sections 92 and 96 of the Constitution, maintained that due process was followed, and any attempts to challenge the action were attempts to undermine the Assembly’s authority.
The group further quoted a statement released after the lawmakers appearance at the DSS Lagos Command in Shangisha where they assured Lagosians that the House of Assembly remains an independent arm of government, committed to serving the best interests of the people.
“The Lagos State House of Assembly will not bow to pressure or intimidation. Our actions were guided by constitutional provisions, and we will continue to uphold the integrity of the legislative process,” the lawmakers stated.
Lovers of Lagos held that the House’s firm stand on its decision despite rumors of political interference, has earned its admiration.
The group expressed its confidence in the Assembly’s ability to protect democratic values and legislative autonomy.