Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has clarified the temporary withdrawal of police security details from Speaker Mojisola Meranda, emphasizing that the decision was part of a routine personnel and arms audit and not politically motivated.
At a press briefing on February 27, 2025, CP Jimoh explained, “The ongoing police personnel audit is done in public interest and not with any consideration except for the safety of all in the state.” The audit, he said, aims to ensure that officers are properly deployed, that firearms are accounted for, and to uncover personnel on unapproved duties.
The withdrawal of Meranda’s security was noticed on Thursday morning, sparking controversy, especially as former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s security was reinstated. Obasa had reportedly requested protection, citing threats to his life.
“Hon. Mudashiru Obasa wrote to the police alleging threats to his life and requested armed protection. We approved the necessary security measures for him,” CP Jimoh clarified. He reiterated that the police remain neutral in the Assembly’s leadership disputes and remain committed to public safety.
The police chief also noted that the personnel audit is taking place nationwide, with more than 20 million residents in Lagos and a police force of less than 18,000. “We are doing this to ensure that the police personnel are on their duty post, providing security for all residents and visitors,” Jimoh said.
The CP reassured the public that Meranda’s security detail has since been reinstated. “The audit of the police personnel attached to Hon. Mojisola Meranda has been completed, and the form-armed police personnel attached to her from the State Police Command have been returned back to her for her protection,” he confirmed.
Lagosians were urged to continue their daily activities without fear, as the police remain committed to maintaining law and order.