Amidst the ongoing speakership tussle that has shaken the Lagos State House of Assembly, ousted Speaker Mudashiru Obasa made a dramatic return to the legislative complex today.
His arrival, heavily guarded by armed and stern-looking security operatives, marked his first public appearance in the Assembly since his removal on January 13, 2025.
The political atmosphere around the Lagos Assembly Complex was tense as supporters of Obasa gathered at the entrance, chanting in his favor and showing solidarity with the lawmaker, who represents Agege Constituency I in the 40-member House.
Observers noted that his supporters’ presence underscored the deep political divisions within the Assembly, highlighting ongoing factional battles within the ruling party.
Background of the Crisis
The crisis erupted in January when more than two-thirds of the Assembly members voted to remove Obasa over allegations of misconduct and other undisclosed offenses.
His removal ended a decade-long tenure as Speaker, a position he had held since June 2015.
Following his ousting, his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was elected as the new Speaker, making history as the first female Speaker in the South-West region.
Shortly after her emergence, Meranda met with key political stakeholders, including members of the influential Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), the highest decision-making body of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos.
She also held a strategic meeting with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, solidifying her position within the state’s political framework.
Her swift political maneuvers demonstrated her intent to assert her authority and secure the necessary backing to maintain stability within the Assembly.
Obasa Rejects Removal
Despite his removal, Obasa has continued to reject the decision of the House, insisting that he remains the legitimate Speaker.
He described the process leading to his removal as unconstitutional, raising concerns over the involvement of security forces in the Assembly complex during the impeachment proceedings.
According to Obasa, his removal was carried out in his absence while he was out of the country, making the process questionable.
Obasa further accused certain political figures of orchestrating his impeachment for their personal gain, hinting at a wider struggle within the Lagos political sphere. He vowed to challenge the decision legally and politically, promising his supporters that he would reclaim his mandate. Some legal experts have speculated that his case could drag on in court, further complicating the Assembly’s governance.
Political Implications
The Lagos speakership crisis has exposed deep divisions within the Assembly and the ruling APC in the state. Some analysts view the move against Obasa as part of a broader power struggle within the party, with factions vying for control ahead of future political contests.
As the 2027 elections loom, the leadership crisis in the Assembly could have ripple effects on the political stability of Lagos State.
Meanwhile, Meranda has been working to consolidate her authority, securing endorsements from key political figures.
Her swift alignment with Governor Sanwo-Olu and the GAC suggests that she enjoys the backing of the party leadership, making it increasingly difficult for Obasa to reclaim his position.
