LAHA Debunks Alleged Defection Of 27 Lagos Assembly Members to Labour Party

By Akinwale Kasali

Following the crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda,  rumours that 27 Lawmakers defected to the Labour Party, LP, has been debunked by Hon. Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode,

Chairman,  House Committee on Information, Strategy and Security of Lagos State House of Assembly.

He stated that the Lawmakers wish

to categorically debunk the malicious and unfounded publication alleging that twenty-seven members of the Assembly are planning to defect from the ruling party to the opposition Labour Party (LP).

He said the publication is entirely false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.

Hon. Ogundipe stressed that the report is not only offensive but also riddled with inaccuracies and outright falsehoods that serve no purpose other than to sow discord and confusion within the Assembly and among the good people of Lagos State.

He further stressed that 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, he said,  were carried out in accordance with the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria as Ammended.

Speaking further, he said the events in no way suggest any intention by members to leave the party.

“We emphasize 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 destabilization 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.

“We furthermore 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.

“We also call on all media partners to uphold the ethics of journalism by verifying facts before publication and refraining from spreading unverified reports that could mislead the public”, the statement reads.