On Tuesday, the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly condemned the arson perpetrated by unidentified individuals in the legislative chamber in Rivers State.
News About Nigeria reports that the legislators condemned the purported meddling by the executive branch of government in the legislative branch’s operations, asserting that the state constitution ensures the legislature’s autonomy.
Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the Speaker of the House, begged President Bola Tinubu to ask Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to reopen the parliament and safeguard the members while they carry out their duties.
As was the case in Edo, when the governor dismantled the chamber’s roof, and in other states where similar incidents had occurred in the past, Obasa stated that the parliament should not become a victim of a political crisis among gladiators.
“The constitution must be adhered to at all times. Since the crisis started in the office of the governor, then there is no reason to lock up the Assembly. Even if the lawmakers have issues, they should be allowed to resolve such among themselves without interference from the executive arm,” Obasa said.
Furthermore, Mr Obasa contended that it is unconstitutional to allow the dismissal of the current Speaker behind closed doors. Even though he acknowledged that impeachments are democratic, he insisted that the constitutional processes be adhered to when attempting to remove a governor or Speaker from office.
Obasa urged Godswill Akpabio, the president of the Senate, and Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the speaker of the House of Representatives, to act quickly to defend the Rivers Assembly and its members.
