In a memo titled “Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement” issued Sunday, Acting Clerk Babatunde Abubakar cited safety concerns as the primary reason for the directive. “All categories of staff at the Assembly and legislative aides are requested to work remotely from home until further notice,” the memo stated, assuring employees of new Speaker Mojisola Meranda’s commitment to their safety and to resolving the crisis peacefully.
The turmoil began on January 13, 2025, when 32 lawmakers voted to remove Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Clerk Olalekan Onafeko, installing former Deputy Speaker Meranda as the new leader. Obasa, challenging the legitimacy of his removal, dramatically returned to the Assembly on February 27 with security personnel, forcibly entered the Speaker’s office, and resumed duties.
Supporters of Obasa have established a continuous presence at the Assembly, demanding his reinstatement. The ousted Speaker has filed a lawsuit against Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, with the Ikeja Court scheduling a hearing for March 7, 2025.