Obasa Impeachment: Lagosians Raise Alarm Over Alleged Use of Police to Intimidate Lawmakers
Concerned citizens of Lagos have expressed deep concern over what they describe as a systematic attempt to undermine democracy in the state, following the arrest and detention of several members of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
In a strongly worded statement e-signed by Omoba Murphy Ajibola on behalf of Lagosians and Concerned Citizens, the group decried the recent developments, highlighting the detention of Hon. Ogunkelu Sylvester (Sketel) and the arrest of Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu.
The statement also noted that Hon. Lanre Affinih was invited for questioning and later released on health grounds, while Hon. Temitope Adewale (Jah) has also been summoned.
According to the group, these actions appear to be part of a broader strategy to pressure the Assembly into overturning the removal of former Speaker Hon. Muda Obasa.
They alleged that powerful individuals are orchestrating these arrests to influence legislative decisions, warning that such interference threatens the autonomy of the Legislature and the democratic process itself.
“This orchestrated campaign against elected representatives is not just an attack on individual lawmakers; it is an assault on democracy,” the statement read. “The Legislature exists to check executive power and represent the people. When lawmakers are intimidated or arrested under questionable circumstances, democracy is at risk.”
The group further warned that if Lagos—Nigeria’s economic and political nerve center—succumbs to such alleged power plays, it could set a dangerous precedent for the country’s democracy.
Calling for urgent intervention, the concerned citizens demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the detained lawmakers.
They urged the authorities to respect the independence of the Legislature and allow it to function without coercion.
“As citizens of Lagos and Nigeria, we must stand united against these threats to our democracy. A stitch in time saves nine; let us act now to safeguard our democratic values before it is too late,” the statement read.
