Lagos Speaker Crisis: A Betrayal of Democracy, Resurfaces Military Tactics- Atiku
posted 27th February 2025
Lagos Speaker Crisis: A Betrayal of Democracy, Resurfaces Military Tactics- Atiku
Lagos Speakership Crisis: A Betrayal of Democracy, Resurfaces Military Tactics
Lagos, Nigeria - February 27, 2025 - The recent turmoil in the Lagos State House of Assembly has ignited fervent discussions about the health of democracy in Nigeria’s commercial hub, with accusations of political manipulation and coercion echoing through political circles.
A press release from the Atiku Media Office points to alarming developments, stating that the situation represents "a betrayal of democracy" reminiscent of Nigeria’s military dictatorship era.
The crisis escalated following the controversial removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, which saw a majority of Assembly members supporting the historic appointment of Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the first female Speaker. Initially perceived as a progressive move for gender representation in governance, the fallout quickly turned troubling with allegations of interference pertaining to Obasa's reinstatement through intimidation and backdoor maneuvering.
The events unfolded shortly after prominent APC leader Mallam Nasir el-Rufai accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of engaging in "selective machine politics," further asserting that the political landscape in Lagos has devolved into what he termed "Area Boy politics," marked by coercion rather than consensus. Observers of the situation noted that this criticism aligns with recent observations of state security forces allegedly raiding the Assembly in a bid to compel a leadership change in favor of Obasa.
The Atiku Media Office's statement underscored President Tinubu's unusually muted response to the crisis, viewing his silence as a troubling acquiescence to the anti-democratic actions under scrutiny. The statement read, “This silence is deafening and deeply concerning,” urging the President to vocally reject any endeavors to undermine the legislative body and democratic principles.
The release further emphasized the contrast between the value of Omoluabi—embodying integrity and public service—and the coercive tactics employed in the current political climate. Paul Ibe, signing on behalf of the Atiku Media Office, called for national vigilance to protect the sanctity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and urged President Tinubu to reassert his commitment to fairness, justice, and due process.
