The Lagos State House of Assembly has ordered all staff and legislative aides to work remotely until further notice due to a growing leadership crisis within the Assembly. This move, aimed at ensuring the safety of staff amid rising tensions, was outlined in an internal memo issued by the Acting Clerk, Mr. A.T.B. Ottun, a copy of which was obtained by TheWest Newspaper.
The directive follows ongoing disputes regarding the leadership of the Assembly, which has left its operations in a state of flux. In the memo, Ottun explained that the decision to implement remote work was necessary to guarantee the safety of personnel and prevent any further disruptions. He cited the Head of Service (HOS) circular 005, dated January 15, 2025, which confirmed the recent leadership changes in the Assembly, including the appointment of Mr. Ottun as Acting Clerk.
“The leadership of the House has approved this measure as a precautionary step pending the resolution of the current crisis,” Mr. Ottun stated in the memo. “All categories of staff, including LAHASCOM and legislative aides, are requested to work from home until further notice.”
The memo further emphasized the need for staff to remain in communication despite working remotely. “Please ensure that your lines of communication remain open, as you may be called upon to perform assignments as the situation evolves,” Ottun added.
The decision to move operations online comes as the Assembly grapples with internal divisions. The leadership crisis was triggered by ongoing disputes over the direction of the House and leadership appointments, which have created uncertainty regarding the Assembly’s day-to-day functions.
In a statement of reassurance, Ottun noted that the leadership, particularly Rt. Hon (Princess) Lasbat Mojisola Meranda, remains committed to the safety and well-being of all staff and is focused on bringing a peaceful resolution to the crisis. “Rt. Hon (Princess) Lasbat Mojisola Meranda is deeply committed to ensuring your safety and working towards a peaceful resolution of the ongoing crisis,” he affirmed.
