PHOTOS: Security operatives surround Lagos assembly as tension heightens over leadership tussle

Security personnel have laid siege to the Lagos state house of assembly complex in Ikeja as legislators prepare for the resumption of plenary. 

Journalists have been barred from entering the premises, with an array of cameras mounted outside the building. The tension is palpable and the atmosphere is understandably charged.

The Lagos legislature has been the scene of a leadership tussle that has pitted Mojisola Meranda, the current speaker, against Mudashiru Obasa, the ousted speaker. Both politicians are laying claim to the throne.

The plenary session is scheduled to begin at 1pm today, with sources within the legislature suggesting that Meranda may tender her resignation.

Obasa, who was removed as speaker on January 13, made a dramatic return to the assembly on February 27, and briefly presided over plenary with only four legislators in attendance.

There are 40 members in the Lagos state house of assembly.

On February 28, lawmakers loyal to Meranda stormed the state high court to hear a suit filed by Obasa challenging his removal.

Below are photos from today’s chapter of the ongoing saga.