The Lagos State House of Assembly has strongly denied reports suggesting that 27 of its members are planning to defect from the ruling party to the opposition Labour Party (LP).
In a statement issued by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, Hon. (Otunba) Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, the Assembly described the report as “malicious, unfounded, and misleading.”
“We find this report not only offensive but also riddled with inaccuracies and outright falsehoods. It serves no purpose other than to sow discord and confusion within the Assembly and among the good people of Lagos State,” the statement read.
Hon. Ogundipe clarified that recent developments in the House, including the removal of the former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and the election of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker, were “purely internal matters” handled in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution.
“These 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,” he added.
The Assembly further assured party leaders and supporters that all members remain committed to the ruling party and its mandate to serve the people of Lagos State.
The statement blamed “agents of destabilization” for spreading falsehoods aimed at creating unnecessary tension and division.
Reaffirming that any internal disagreements would be resolved through democratic processes, the Assembly urged media outlets to uphold journalistic ethics by verifying information before publication.
“There is no crisis that warrants any member considering defection. We call on all media partners to verify facts before spreading unverified reports that could mislead the public,” the statement stated.
