Security Beefed Up As Ousted Lagos Assembly Speaker Obasa Storms Plenary

Obasa’s claim of still holding the Speaker’s position comes as Monday’s session marks the third presided over by Meranda since his ousting. In a statement, Obasa, who has been outside Lagos since the incident, insisted that he had not been properly removed. He denied the allegations against him, calling them “impossible” and stressing that any removal should follow the correct legal procedures.

In a speech to his supporters at the Speaker’s Lodge, Obasa refuted claims of financial misconduct, questioning the allegations of extravagant spending, such as the purchase of a gate for N16 billion and N1 billion per Hilux bus. He firmly maintained that he had done nothing wrong in his two-decade-long career as a lawmaker.

Meanwhile, security has been tightened at the Assembly, with a notice from the Acting Clerk requiring all staff and legislative aides to present valid identification cards for entry. The police have pledged to maintain peace outside the Assembly, with Lagos State Commissioner of Police Ishola Olawale stating that no breakdown of law and order will be tolerated in the state.

Obasa’s claims of a police invasion of his residence were dismissed by the CP, who pointed out the impossibility of over 200 policemen being present at Obasa’s homes without being detected. Additionally, the police clarified that they had no authority inside the Assembly.

Efforts to resolve the dispute politically are ongoing, with reports indicating that Obasa is scheduled to meet with President Bola Tinubu and the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) to discuss the issue. While the focus remains on finding a political solution, sources suggest that Obasa has no plans to return to the Assembly for Monday’s session.