Rhodes-Vivour condemns attempt to intimidate Lagos Speaker Meranda

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour has condemned attempts to intimidate Mojisola Meranda into resigning as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, calling it “unacceptable.”

This follows reports that security operatives sealed off the speaker’s office amid growing speculation that Meranda might step down. Police and task force officers were deployed around the assembly complex to maintain order.

The tension arose after the assembly requested the Department of State Services (DSS) to bolster security ahead of February 18, citing fears that Mudashiru Obasa might attempt to resume office as speaker.

Abubakar Ottun, the acting clerk of the house, raised concerns that Obasa’s return could threaten the safety of the assembly and its members. In response, lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Meranda.

During an interview on Channels Television, Rhodes-Vivour expressed outrage at what he described as the “desecration” of the assembly.

He labeled the situation a “show of shame” and called on President Bola Tinubu and the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos to intervene and curb Obasa’s actions.

“The APC has normalized using intimidation and force to get their way,” Rhodes-Vivour said. “An attempt to intimidate the speaker using armed men and the threat of violence is unacceptable.”

Rhodes-Vivour further criticized the involvement of armed men in the assembly, calling it a “big low” and a “disgrace to our politics in Lagos.” He also expressed frustration that corruption allegations against the former speaker, Obasa, had yet to yield any consequences.

Meranda made history as the first female speaker of the Lagos Assembly on January 13, following Obasa’s removal while he was abroad.

Obasa, upon his return, contested the process, arguing that it was not conducted properly and insisted he remained the legitimate speaker.