The Lagos State House of Assembly is currently embroiled in a political crisis, with reports suggesting that 28 out of the 40 lawmakers are preparing to defect from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to a yet-to-be-announced political party. This development has intensified the already fraught atmosphere within the Assembly, following months of leadership disputes and internal party conflicts.
New Telegraph newspaper reports that the crisis stems from the controversial reinstatement of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was removed from office on January 13, 2025, amid allegations of fraud, abuse of office, and gross misconduct. Despite his re-election on March 3, 2025, after the resignation of his successor, Mojisola Meranda, tensions have remained high. Many lawmakers have expressed dissatisfaction with the process that led to Obasa’s return, accusing party leaders of coercion and undermining democratic principles.
Sources within the Assembly reveal that the planned defection is a response to perceived marginalisation and unresolved grievances. Lawmakers reportedly feel alienated by the APC’s handling of the leadership crisis and are seeking a fresh political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections. The move is expected to significantly alter the political landscape in Lagos, with potential implications for the APC’s dominance in the state.
Political analysts have described the situation as a test of the APC’s internal cohesion and ability to manage dissent. “This is a critical moment for the party. How it handles this crisis will determine its future in Lagos politics,” said Dr. Adebayo Oladipo, a political science lecturer at the University of Lagos.
As the Assembly braces for the fallout, stakeholders are calling for dialogue and reconciliation to prevent further disruptions to legislative activities. The APC leadership is yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but insiders suggest that high-level meetings are underway to address the lawmakers’ concerns and avert the defection.
