By Kolawole Ojebisi
The Lagos State Assembly has once again debunked claims that a significant number of its members are contemplating defecting from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, Ogundipe Olukayode, dismissed the claim that 25 lawmakers are planning to defect from the APC to an unnamed party.
This is coming days after the leadership tussle in the legislature was resolved.
Olukayode described in a Wednessday statement that the report is “entirely false and without merit.”
“We categorically state that this claim is entirely false and without merit.
“During the recent leadership dispute within the Assembly, a similar report surfaced, suggesting that twenty-seven (27) members were preparing to leave the APC for the Labour Party.
“That claim was also unequivocally refuted, with members affirming their commitment to the party and confidence in resolving internal disagreements through established mechanisms,” he stated.
He emphasized that no APC lawmaker in the Assembly was contemplating defection, reiterating that as progressives, any challenges faced are resolved through democratic and lawful means.
Olukayode further assured that the APC leadership is actively addressing all internal concerns and outstanding issues will be resolved amicably.
He urged those spreading the rumours to desist from misleading the public, stressing that the Lagos Assembly remains focused on its legislative duties of enacting laws and motions that drive the state’s development.
Recall that the Lagos State House of Assembly recently experienced significant leadership changes.
On January 13, 2025, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was impeached over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. Mojisola Meranda was subsequently elected as the first female Speaker of the Assembly.
However, on March 3, 2025, Meranda resigned from her position, and Obasa was reinstated as Speaker.
These events have led to internal disagreements within the Assembly, prompting rumours of potential defections. However, as stated by Olukayode, members have reaffirmed their commitment to the APC and are confident in resolving internal disagreements through established mechanisms.
