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By Lukman Olabiyi
The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) have condemned the recent invasion of the Lagos State House of Assembly by armed operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), while voicing their strong support for the election of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda as the Speaker.
At a press briefing held on Wednesday in Ikeja, Lagos, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, spokesperson for the coalition, praised Meranda’s election, calling it a groundbreaking achievement for women in Nigerian politics.
“As the first woman to hold the position of Speaker in Lagos State, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda’s ascension is a monumental achievement in the history of Nigerian politics. It marks a significant step toward ensuring gender equity in political leadership and serves as a source of inspiration for women and girls across the country,” Akiyode-Afolabi stated.
The CSOs affirmed their full support for Meranda’s leadership, urging all stakeholders to respect the constitutional process that led to her election.
They also backed the decision by the majority of the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly to elect Meranda, which included the removal of former Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
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In addition, the coalition strongly condemned the DSS’s actions during the invasion of the Assembly on Monday.
They expressed outrage over reports that DSS operatives harassed lawmakers and denied them access to their chambers.
“This display of force is a gross violation of the rights of the lawmakers and is an unacceptable form of interference in the democratic process,” the coalition held.
The CSOs emphasised that the use of force to intimidate elected officials undermines the rule of law and damages the foundation of democracy.
They called on all state actors to respect the independence of the legislature and refrain from using coercion or intimidation to influence its activities.
“We demand that elected representatives must be allowed to perform their duties without fear or external pressure, ensuring that democracy remains intact and fully functional,” Dr. Akiyode-Afolabi concluded.
