By Civil society organizations (CSOs) advocating for women’s rights in governance have thrown their support behind the newly elected Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda.
At a press conference in Lagos on Wednesday, the CSOs condemned the alleged harassment of lawmakers by the Department of State Services (DSS), calling it a “gross violation of their rights and an unacceptable interference in the democratic process.”
Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, co-convener of Womanifesto, spoke on behalf of the groups, emphasizing that the controversy surrounding Speaker Meranda’s election after the removal of Mudashiru Obasa was unwarranted.
The organizations insisted that the transition of leadership in the House followed due process and should not be undermined by external forces.
They urged security agencies to respect democratic institutions and allow lawmakers to carry out their duties without intimidation or obstruction.
The DSS has yet to respond to the allegations, while Speaker Meranda continues to carry out her legislative responsibilities despite the ongoing political tensions.
