The Ondo State House of Assembly was thrown into tension on Thursday after suspected thugs reportedly invaded the legislative complex amid the ongoing impeachment crisis involving Speaker Olamide Oladiji.
The alleged invaders reportedly stormed the premises and moved through the corridors and offices, creating panic among lawmakers, legislative workers and other staff members.
Sources said the suspected thugs were allegedly mobilised to prevent moves to remove Oladiji, who is currently facing an impeachment bid by members of the Assembly.
The incident reportedly disrupted legislative activities as some workers locked themselves inside their offices amid fears of a possible confrontation.
A staff member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the situation was brought under control after some lawmakers and security personnel intervened to remove the alleged intruders from the premises.
“It took the combined efforts of Hon. Oguntodu, some members of the House, and the security agencies to ensure the hoodlums were displaced from the premises,” the source said.
The staff member added that the alleged invaders moved around the complex without making their intentions clear.
“They were moving erratically, and no one could ascertain their specific mission until the intervention occurred,” the source added.
The development comes amid an escalating impeachment dispute within the Assembly.
Also Read: Police deploy tactical teams to rescue worshippers abducted in Niger
Recall that more than 22 of the 26 lawmakers had reportedly signed an impeachment notice seeking the removal of Oladiji as Speaker.
The lawmakers’ move was linked to allegations of financial impropriety involving the alleged diversion of ₦44 million from the budget of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC).
The allegations have further heightened tensions within the state legislature, with the latest incident raising concerns over the safety of lawmakers and staff at the Assembly complex.
Following the reported invasion, security was strengthened around the premises, while some lawmakers were said to have remained in a marathon meeting as efforts continued to manage the unfolding crisis.