Tension in Lagos political circles as Obasa moves to resume as Speaker today

The Lagos State House of Assembly is set for a tense sitting today as the leadership crisis between Mojisola Meranda and Mudashiru Obasa continues to deepen.

Obasa, who was impeached as Speaker on January 13, 2025, by 35 of the Assembly’s 40 members over allegations of misconduct and financial mismanagement, insists he remains the legitimate Speaker.

Over the weekend, Obasa returned from a trip abroad and declared his intention to resume as Speaker, describing his impeachment as unconstitutional.

Addressing supporters at his official residence in Ikeja, he criticized the process that led to his removal and accused the police of interfering.

“I am not afraid of being removed. Lagos is a special place; we cannot denigrate the state. They should prove their allegations against me and follow due process,” Obasa said.

In response, lawmakers loyal to Mojisola Meranda, elected as the new Speaker, reaffirmed their position, insisting that Obasa’s removal was final and in line with constitutional procedures.

A statement from former House Committee Chairman on Information and Security, Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, noted, “Over two-thirds of the Assembly members remain solidly united behind Speaker Mojisola Meranda, and we stand firmly by the decision taken on January 13.”

Meanwhile, reports indicate that President Bola Tinubu, during a recent meeting with both factions in Abuja, upheld the Assembly’s decision to remove Obasa, urging him to vacate the Speaker’s residence peacefully.