By Ghazali Ibrahim 
A dramatic turn of events has unfolded at the Lagos State High Court today as 29 lawmakers from the Lagos State House of Assembly have arrived at the court for the hearing of Mudashiru Obasa’s legal challenge over his removal as Speaker.
Initially, it was a number of 36 lawmakers who showed up in court for the suit instituted by Obasa challenging his removal. However, the number reduce to 29 lawmakers, according to reports.
Obasa, who was ousted on January 13, 2025, by 36 lawmakers while he was out of the country, filed a lawsuit through his legal representative, Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), contesting the decision.
The ongoing legal battle has captured significant attention, as the Lagos Assembly remains embroiled in a leadership crisis.
Representing the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, are prominent legal figures, including lead counsel Mr. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), along with a team of senior advocates such as Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN), Mr. Olu Daramola (SAN), Mrs. Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN), Dr. Dada Awosika (SAN), Prof. Dayo Amokaye (SAN), Mr. Mofe Oyetibo (SAN), Mr. Olumide Oyewole, and Mr. Wunmi Okeremi.
The presence of the 29 lawmakers in court underscores the deep divide within the Assembly over the removal of Obasa and the subsequent appointment of Meranda as Speaker, the first female to hold such a position in the history of the Lagos Assembly.
The House, meanwhile, has strongly condemned an “unsanctioned plenary session” that was held on Thursday by Obasa and three other members, calling it unconstitutional.
The session was reportedly held after Obasa returned to the Assembly and declared himself reinstated as Speaker, but this was met with resistance from Meranda’s supporters.
In a statement, the House reaffirmed its unwavering support for Speaker Mojisola Meranda, dismissing any speculation surrounding her resignation. The Assembly reiterated its commitment to upholding legislative integrity and continuing to work in the best interest of Lagosians.
“The Assembly remains resolute in its support for Speaker Meranda and will not tolerate any unconstitutional actions aimed at undermining her leadership,” the statement read.
This latest chapter in the political saga reflects the growing tensions within the Lagos State House of Assembly, with both legal and political implications for the state’s governance.
As the legal battle progresses, the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for the future of Lagos politics.
