The turmoil within the Lagos State House of Assembly escalated on Thursday as the Department of State Services (DSS) detained two lawmakers linked to the controversial impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Hon. Sylvester Ogunkelu (representing Epe 2) and Hon. Lanre Afinni (representing Lagos Island 2) were reportedly taken into custody after allegedly attempting to seize the legislative mace—the official symbol of authority—during the process that led to Obasa’s removal.
Tensions flared as around 20 legislators marched to the DSS office in Shangisha, demanding the immediate release of their detained colleagues. However, security personnel restricted media access to the premises, adding to the intrigue surrounding the situation.
Afinni was later released on health grounds, but Ogunkelu remained in detention as of the time of reporting.
Obasa was impeached on January 13 while he was in the United States, facing allegations of gross misconduct. In his absence, Mojisola Meranda was swiftly installed as the new Speaker.
Despite his removal, Obasa returned to Lagos last Saturday, rallying his supporters and insisting he was still the legitimate Speaker. However, the lawmakers have stood their ground, affirming that his impeachment is irreversible.
With the involvement of security agencies and heightened political tensions, the crisis within the Lagos Assembly remains far from resolved.
