…Lawmakers Insist ex-Speaker’s Removal Constitutional
…As group raises alarm over alleged harassment of lawmakers
The detained Lagos Lawmakers have regained their freedom after spending hours with the Department of State Services at Shangisha-Magodo in Lagos.
They were released at about 8:00pm on Thursday evening.
Some of the lawmakers arrested were; Hon Sylvester Ogunkelu, Hon. Lanre Afinni, Hon. Abiodun Tobun and Hon. Gbolahon Yishawu.
Immediately they were released, their vehicles moved in convoy to the Lagos State House of Assembly Complex on Alausa, Ikeja.
Following their release, the Assembly has insisted that the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was constitutional.
In a statement by Hon Ogundipe Olukayode, the House said it honoured the invitation of the Department State Security (DSS) over the removal of the former Speaker.
It said: “Today, members of Lagos State House of Assembly honoured an invitation from the Lagos Command of Department of State Services (DSS) in Shaginsha. We visited the DSS to provide insights into the situation on the removal of the ex speaker.
“At the DSS office, we reaffirmed our commitment to upholding constitutional governance following the removal of the former Speaker.
“The decision was made in accordance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Powers and Privileges Act, which empower the State Assembly to regulate its internal proceedings without external interference.
“Sections 92 and 96, outline the process for the election and removal of the Speaker, and due process was followed in our decision.
“It is also in public knowledge that legislative autonomy was granted to State Assemblies, ensuring that elected representatives can conduct their business freely within the chambers assigned to them.
“The Lagos State House of Assembly, as an independent arm of government, has exercised its constitutional duty in the best interest of the people of Lagos.
“The decision to remove the former Speaker was made through a democratic process, with the required majority as stipulated by law. Any attempt to challenge this lawful action undermines the authority granted to us by the Nigerian Constitution.
“We commend the professionalism of the DSS office in their friendly invitation. We appreciate the Lagos DSS Command, especially the Director, for ensuring a smooth and respectful engagement.
“The process allowed us to give a clear recount of events in a comfortable and professional environment.
“All members of the Assembly earlier detained have now regained their freedom. We reiterate our commitment to legislative duties that serve the interests of Lagosians, ensuring effective governance and the continued development of the state.
“We call on all stakeholders, including the executive arm and the public, to respect the sanctity of legislative proceedings and refrain from undue interference.”
Meanwhile, a socio-political group in the state, Lagos, the Concerned Citizens of Lagos, has cried out over what it described as a systematic attempt to undermine democracy in the state, reports thegazellenews.com.
The group’s reaction followed the alleged arrest and detention of some members of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
In a statement by the leader of the group, Omoba Murphy Ajibola, said these actions appear to be part of a broader strategy to pressure the Assembly into overturning the removal of the former Speaker.
It said: “This orchestrated campaign against elected representatives is not just an attack on individual lawmakers; it is an assault on democracy.
“The Legislature exists to check executive power and represent the people. When lawmakers are intimidated or arrested under questionable circumstances, democracy is at risk.”
