In a dramatic turn of events, two members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Lanre Afinni and Sylvester Ogunkelu, have been grilled by the police over their alleged roles in the ongoing speakership crisis that has rocked the legislative chamber. While Afinni was granted administrative bail on health grounds, Ogunkelu remains in police custody, sources confirmed.
The Lagos Assembly has been embroiled in controversy since January 13, when Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was ousted and replaced by his deputy, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, while he was away in the United States. Obasa, however, has rejected his removal, claiming that due process was not followed.
In response, the Assembly reaffirmed its decision to unseat Obasa, warning that any attempt to destabilize the House would be resisted by the majority members.
According to multiple sources, Ogunkelu, who represents Epe Constituency 2, and Afinni, representing Lagos Island Constituency 2, allegedly destroyed government property within the Assembly chambers during the chaotic removal of Obasa.
On that fateful day, the Clerk of the House, Barrister Lekan Onafeko, was absent, and his office was locked. Witnesses claim that Ogunkelu and Afinni forcibly retrieved the mace—the official symbol of legislative authority—by breaking doors and damaging Assembly property.
Following these allegations, the police invited both lawmakers for interrogation. On Wednesday, investigative officers subjected them to questioning, leading to Ogunkelu’s detention while Afinni was released due to his health condition.
When contacted by Sahara Reporters, Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, declined to comment, stating that he was unable to take calls at the time. As of the time of this report, he had yet to respond to messages seeking clarification on the investigation.
The unfolding crisis raises serious concerns about the stability of the Lagos State House of Assembly. With police investigations ongoing and the speakership dispute still unresolved, the coming days could determine whether peace is restored or if the power struggle will escalate further.
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