A coalition of civil society groups has called for strict adherence to due process following the ongoing controversy surrounding the Lagos State House of Assembly’s speakership.
The organizations, which focus on advancing women’s rights in governance, also condemned an alleged intervention by security operatives in the Assembly and urged all stakeholders to respect constitutional principles.
At a press conference in Lagos on Wednesday, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Co-convener of Womanisfesto, read a statement affirming that the removal of Mudashiru Obasa and the subsequent election of Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as Speaker were constitutionally valid. The coalition cited Sections 92 and 96 of the 1999 Constitution in support of their position, asserting that the majority of lawmakers followed due process in electing Meranda, making her the legitimate Speaker of the House.
The coalition, consisting of 157 women’s organizations, celebrated Meranda’s election as the first female Speaker of Lagos State, calling it a landmark achievement for women in politics. They emphasized the importance of gender equity in leadership, describing her rise to the position as an inspiration for women and girls across Nigeria.
The statement expressed strong support for Meranda’s leadership and urged all stakeholders to respect the constitutional process, upholding the legitimacy of her position.
Additionally, the civil society leaders condemned the actions of the Department of State Services, alleging that armed operatives harassed lawmakers and prevented them from accessing the chambers. The coalition deemed this interference unacceptable, warning that such actions undermine democracy.
The group called on state actors to respect the independence of the legislature and refrain from using coercion to influence Assembly decisions. They emphasized that any impeachment or electoral process must adhere to constitutional provisions, ensuring fairness, transparency, and justice.
Standing firmly behind Meranda, the coalition urged all stakeholders to uphold the constitution and support women in leadership roles. They reiterated that women, constituting half of the population, must be adequately represented in governance for inclusive development in Lagos State.
“We strongly support her leadership and urge all stakeholders to respect the constitutional process and uphold the legitimacy of her position,” the statement read.
