LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State House of Assembly has dismissed reports that 25 of its members are planning to defect from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to another political party.
The denial comes amid ongoing speculation about the future of the lawmakers following a recent leadership dispute within the legislative house.
Hon. Ogundipe Olukayode, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Strategy, and Security, issued a statement refuting the claims, describing them as “entirely false and without merit.”
Rumours suggested that a majority of lawmakers were considering leaving the APC due to internal disagreements, particularly after Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s impeachment and subsequent reinstatement.
“We categorically state that this claim is entirely false and without merit,” Ogundipe said.
“It is important to recall that, during the recent leadership dispute within the Assembly, a similar report surfaced, suggesting that twenty-seven (27) members were preparing to leave the APC for the Labour Party.
That claim was also unequivocally refuted, with members affirming their commitment to the party and confidence in resolving internal disagreements through established mechanisms.”
The House spokesperson reiterated that no member of the Lagos State House of Assembly is contemplating defection.
“As true progressives, we acknowledge that challenges may arise, but we remain committed to addressing them through democratic and lawful processes,” he said.
Ogundipe emphasised that the APC leadership is actively engaged in resolving any outstanding issues within the party.
“The leadership of our party is fully engaged, and any outstanding issues will be resolved amicably,” he added.
He also urged the public to disregard the reports, which he described as attempts to mislead and create unnecessary tension.
“We urge the public to disregard these unfounded reports, which are designed to mislead and create unnecessary tension,” he said.
The statement reaffirmed the lawmakers’ loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leader of the APC and President of Nigeria.
“We reaffirm our loyalty to the leader of our party and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. We remain steadfast in our support and dedication to the ideals of the APC,” Ogundipe stated.
He concluded by advising those spreading falsehoods to desist from such acts, stressing that the Lagos State House of Assembly remains focused on its legislative mandate.
“Finally, we advise those spreading falsehoods to desist from such acts, as the Lagos State House of Assembly remains focused on its legislative mandate—enacting laws and passing motions that promote the progress and development of Lagos State,” he said.
The denial comes as the APC seeks to maintain unity within its ranks ahead of future elections, with the Lagos State House of Assembly playing a pivotal role in the party’s political strategy.
