PHOTOS: 35 Lagos Lawmakers in Court to Back Speaker Meranda

On January 13, 2025, 36 members of the Assembly impeached Mr Obasa while he was in the United States of America (USA) and elected his deputy, Mrs Mojisola Meranda, to replace him.

Mr Obasa was not happy about this, filing a suit to challenge his removal from office because he claimed it was illegal.

On Thursday, he made his first appearance at the Lagos Assembly after his impeachment accompanied by heavily-armed security operatives.

At the hearing of his suit today, the 35 lawmakers loyal to Mrs Meranda were in court to show support for her.

In the application dated February 12, 2025, and filed by his lawyer, Mr Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), the plaintiff claimed that he was removed from his position on January 13, 2025, by 36 lawmakers while he was out of the country.

At the time of filing this report, the lawmakers had taken their seats in preparation for the hearing.

The new Speaker is being represented by Mr Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), Mr Olu Daramola (SAN), Mr Femi Falana (SAN), Mr. Muiz Banire (SAN), Mrs Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN), Dr Dada Awosika (SAN), Prof. Dayo Amokaye (SAN), Mr Mofe Oyetibo (SAN), Mr Olumide Oyewole and Mr Wunmi Okeremi.

Meanwhile, the House, through a statement issued by its spokesman, Mr Steve Ogundipe, on Friday, has condemned what it described as an invasion on Thursday, saying, “The Lagos State House of Assembly wishes to bring to the attention of Lagosians, Nigerians, and the global community an incident that occurred on Thursday, involving an unsanctioned attempt to convene a plenary session by the former Speaker, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, alongside three members.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the rules governing plenary sessions of the House are clear. A valid sitting requires a formal notice to all members, the presence of a quorum, an approved agenda, and the mace—an essential symbol of legislative authority.

“None of these procedural requirements was met during the purported session, with only 5 out of 40 members present, rendering it unconstitutional and without legislative effect.

The statement added that the House remains steadfast in upholding the integrity of the legislature and is committed to maintaining the highest parliamentary standards.

“As an institution dedicated to the progress and development of Lagos State, we shall continue to act within the confines of the law to protect and preserve democratic governance.

“Furthermore, we reaffirm our unwavering support for the leadership of the Speaker, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, who continues to demonstrate dedication to the service of Lagosians. Any speculation suggesting her resignation is entirely unfounded. She remains firmly in office and enjoys the confidence and support of 36 colleagues,” the statement said.

The House said it aligns with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in working towards a constructive resolution of misunderstandings adding that the House will continue to work in the interest of Lagosians.