The Lagos State House of Assembly has strongly denied reports alleging that 27 lawmakers are planning to defect from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the opposition Labour Party (LP).

The Assembly described the claims as “false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.”

The rebuttal comes amid a heated leadership crisis within the Assembly, which saw the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and the emergence of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker.

The development has fuelled speculation about internal divisions within the ruling party in Lagos.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, the Assembly insisted that there was no plan for defection and that the internal political restructuring had not affected members’ loyalty to the party.

“We find this report not only offensive but also riddled with inaccuracies and outright falsehoods. The recent changes in the leadership of the House are purely internal matters conducted in line with the Nigerian Constitution as amended,” the statement read.

The Assembly further dismissed the defection claims as an attempt by “agents of destabilisation” to create unnecessary tension and division within the legislative body. It assured party leaders and supporters that all lawmakers remain committed to the APC and its mandate to serve Lagosians.

Tensions in the Lagos Assembly have been high following Obasa’s controversial removal, which some political observers see as a power struggle between different factions within the ruling party.

While Meranda has taken over as Speaker, Obasa’s loyalists are reportedly working to reclaim the leadership position, adding to the political uncertainty in the House.

Despite the ongoing crisis, the statement reaffirmed that any disagreements among lawmakers would be settled “amicably through peaceful and democratic mechanisms.”

The statement read in part: “The recent developments in the House, including the removal of the erstwhile Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and the election of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker, are purely internal matters. These actions were carried out in accordance with the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria as amended.

“These events in no way suggest any intention by members to leave the party. We emphasise, without any ambiguity, that no member of the Assembly is contemplating defection.

“We were elected under the Leadership of the Ruling Party, The ruling party remains united and focused on delivering its mandate to the people of Lagos State. The falsehood being spread originates from agents of destabilisation who seek to create unnecessary tension and division within the Assembly.

“To our party leaders and supporters across the state, we assure you that all members remain committed to the party.

“Furthermore, we reaffirm that any internal disagreements within the House will be resolved amicably through peaceful and democratic mechanisms. There is no crisis that warrants any member considering defection.”

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