Clerk of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Olalekan Onafeko, has warned Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) members to steer clear of political matters affecting the Assembly.
Onafeko gave the warning during a two-day capacity-building workshop for the union’s executive members held in Ikeja on Friday.
Freedomonline reports that the workshop is themed: ‘The Role of Unionism in a Political Environment.’
The warning follows a Jan. 13 incident, where Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was impeached by 36 out of the 40 Assembly members, and the clerk suspended.
Many Assembly workers were seen celebrating with Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, shortly after she was purportedly sworn in as Speaker.
Workers were also observed ejecting DSS officers from the chambers, which led to the arrest and later bail of three Assembly staff members.
On April 16, Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of a Lagos High Court nullified the impeachment of Obasa, reversing the controversial proceedings.
Addressing union involvement, Onafeko advised PASAN to remain cautious in its operations, noting the Assembly’s labour-friendly environment should not be abused.
He emphasised that union leaders must prioritise members’ welfare, peace of mind, and job security above all other concerns.
The clerk urged PASAN executives to focus on protecting their members’ interests instead of interfering in political matters involving lawmakers.
Onafeko warned that violations of civil service rules would attract penalties, including possible dismissal from the public service.
“This is a political setting. You’re in PASAN because you’re employed by the Assembly,” he reminded union leaders.
He stressed the importance of adhering to rules, adding that future violations may not be excused, regardless of past leniency.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress cannot shield you from civil service sanctions. If breached again, you risk being dismissed
“You’re lucky to work in a labour-friendly environment. In tougher workplaces, outcomes might have been very different,” Onafeko said.
He called on legislative staff to value the privileges they currently enjoy and not take them for granted.
The clerk warned against chasing new benefits without appreciating existing ones, as it could lead to losing both — what he called “double jeopardy.”
He reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to improving staff welfare and boosting capacity for better efficiency.
To the Assembly members, he said the past issues were over, and lessons had been learnt from the experience.
He urged workers, through PASAN leadership, to let bygones remain buried and show renewed dedication to their roles.
This, he noted, should be reflected in their conduct and job performance, showing growth as individuals and as public servants.
Also speaking, Lagos NLC Chairperson, Mrs Funmi Sessi, praised Speaker Obasa and the clerk for enabling the long-overdue training.
Sessi noted that modern unionism has shifted away from confrontation and now relies on strategy and effective techniques.
“This programme introduces members to real-world union operations. Today, unionism is about skills and smart negotiation,” she said.
She urged PASAN to continue building capacity, while calling on Assembly management to support regular training initiatives.
Delivering the welcome address, PASAN Chairman, Mr Babatunde Ogunlana, stressed the need to understand unionism within political environments.
Ogunlana said executives must be fully prepared for their roles, particularly following recent events in the House.
Referring to the Jan. 13 incident, Ogunlana stated it was crucial to reflect on the union’s involvement, hence the training.
He encouraged attendees to stay engaged and make the most of the two-day sessions for future effectiveness.
Freedomonline reports the workshop includes interactive sessions and expert discussions to equip PASAN executives with essential tools and knowledge.
