The Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly is an embarrassment to Nigeria's democracy.

In a statement on Tuesday, the PDP Vice Chairman (Lagos Central), Mr Hakeem Olalemi, lamented that the state was left stagnant for two months as a result of the crisis.

The crisis began after the lawmaker representing Agege Constituency 1, Mudashiru Obasa, was impeached by the majority members of the house.

He, however, challenged the removal which had him replaced by his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, leading to a crisis that needed security intervention.

Reacting, Olamide said, "The crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly is nothing short of an eyesore and an embarrassment to democracy in Lagos State.

"The leadership tussle, which has seen both Mudashiru Obasa and Mojisola Meranda laying claim to the position of Speaker, threw the legislative arm into disarray.

"It is sad that the situation was further complicated by the presence of two clerks of the assembly with each asserting authority.
"This is the time for the people of Lagos to free themselves by electing a party that is truly democratic and a party that will allow them to aspire for any position without interference

"It is time for a new initiative in the governance of Lagos State."

He stated that the crisis has revealed a lack of cohesion within the power dynamics in the state, adding that it shows that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) lack conflict-resolution mechanisms.

"The crisis which began with the removal of Obasa on January 13, 2025, amid allegations of abuse of office, financial misappropriations, and misconduct escalated to full-blown chaos and despite the intervention of key political figures and the Governance Advisory Council, the crisis festered and stagnated the state.

"The Assembly has been unable to function effectively, with staff being directed to work remotely to ensure their safety.
"The situation in the Lagos State House of Assembly can be seen as a manifestation of the "sit-tight syndrome" within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

"This phenomenon, where political leaders cling to power at all costs, has led to a stagnation in the party's developmental initiatives, prioritising personal gains for cronies over the welfare of the people," he added.

He said the crisis erodes public trust and sends a wrong signal to the aspiring youth, highlighting the urgent need for effective conflict resolution and a renewed commitment to democratic principles and good governance.

"The people of the state should see this crisis as a signal for the need to change the APC as a party in Lagos State.

"The party has become redundant and lacks new governance initiatives to drive the economy of the state and to improve the welfare of its people rather they are on the self-aggrandizement mission," he said.

Meanwhile, Obasa was on Monday reinstated as Speaker of the House while Meranda returned to her position as his deputy.

ASA