The Lagos State House of Assembly has detailed the rationale behind the impeachment of its Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, in a decision that has sent ripples through the state’s political landscape. Obasa, who was ousted while on a trip to the United States, was replaced by former Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, marking a significant shake-up in the Assembly’s leadership.
The impeachment, carried out with the backing of more than two-thirds of the lawmakers, also saw the removal of the Clerk of the Assembly, Olalekan Onafeko, with Abubakar Ottun stepping in as acting Clerk.
Addressing the media, Abiodun Tobun, speaking on behalf of the Assembly members, described the impeachment as an essential step to uphold the integrity of the legislative body. “Change is inevitable,” Tobun stated. “The members of this House, in exercising our constitutional right to regulate our proceedings, unanimously decided that we had endured enough under the leadership of the Speaker. Today, we have resolved to replace him to safeguard the sanctity and reputation of this Assembly.”
Tobun further explained that the decision was not taken lightly but was driven by a collective desire to prioritize the welfare of Lagosians and ensure accountability within the legislature. “This action was necessary to unify the Assembly and move it to the next level of efficiency and progress,” he said.
In addition to the leadership changes, all principal positions and standing committees within the Assembly were dissolved to signal a fresh start. Allegations of financial and statutory violations against Obasa, who had served as Speaker since 2015, played a significant role in the impeachment.
The move was met with widespread approval from Assembly staff, who described Obasa’s removal as a breath of fresh air. Many workers criticized his leadership style, accusing him of highhandedness and neglecting their welfare.
Meanwhile, outside the Assembly complex, police arrested a group of men allegedly loitering near the premises. In a viral video, the men, reportedly members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Agege, claimed they were detained without explanation. “We are about 20 here, all from Orile Agege, and we are APC youths,” one of the men said. The group was seen singing the pro-Tinubu anthem, “On Your Mandate,” while begging for food and water.
The impeachment of Obasa, Lagos State’s longest-serving Speaker, underscores a pivotal moment in the Assembly’s history as it seeks to rebuild trust and reinforce its commitment to good governance.
