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A coalition of civil society organizations issued a call to action on Wednesday, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to due process amidst the controversy surrounding the Lagos State House of Assembly’s speakership.

These organizations, dedicated to promoting women’s rights in governance, also condemned the alleged invasion of the Assembly by security operatives. They urged all stakeholders to uphold constitutional principles and respect the rule of law.

During a press conference in Lagos, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi read a statement on behalf of the coalition, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in governance.

The coalition, comprising 157 women’s groups, affirmed the constitutional validity of Mudashiru Obasa’s removal and Mojisola Lasbat Meranda’s election, referencing Sections 92 and 96 of the 1999 Constitution.

According to the coalition, Meranda’s election was legitimate, as the majority of lawmakers followed due process, making her the rightful Speaker of the House.

Meranda’s historic emergence as the first female Speaker in Lagos State’s history was hailed by the coalition as a groundbreaking achievement for women in politics.

The coalition emphasized the importance of gender equity in leadership, noting that Meranda’s ascension serves as a powerful inspiration for women and girls across Nigeria.

“We strongly support her leadership and urge all stakeholders to respect the constitutional process and uphold the legitimacy of her position,” the statement read.

Civil society leaders condemned the Department of State Services’ (DSS) actions, accusing armed operatives of harassing lawmakers and blocking their access to the chambers.

This, they argued, constituted an unacceptable intrusion into the democratic process, emphasizing that intimidating elected officials erodes the foundations of democracy.

The coalition urged all state actors to respect the legislature’s independence and refrain from using coercive tactics to influence Assembly decisions.

They emphasized that any impeachment or electoral process must adhere strictly to constitutional provisions, ensuring a fair, transparent, and just outcome.

Standing firmly in support of Meranda, the coalition emphasized the importance of upholding the constitution and promoting women’s leadership.

The coalition reiterated that women, comprising half of the population, deserve proportional representation in governance to guarantee inclusive development and equitable progress in Lagos State.

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