By Habeeb Ibrahim
The Lagos State House of Assembly has reiterated its strong support for Rt Hon Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, affirming that the majority of members remain united behind her following the impeachment of former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, on January 13th, 2025.
In a press release issued by Hon Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, the Assembly emphasized that over two-thirds of its members fully back Meranda and stand by the decision to remove Obasa. The statement stressed that the impeachment was carried out in accordance with the constitutional rights of the Assembly members, who are empowered to remove Principal Officers, including the Speaker.
“The position of the House remains unchanged, and nothing has changed,” the statement declared, rejecting the claims made by Obasa, who continues to assert that he is the legitimate Speaker. The majority members underscored that Obasa’s position is “uncalled for and unparliamentary,” urging him to accept the outcome and contribute to maintaining peace and harmony within the Assembly.
The press release called on Obasa to refrain from actions that could further heat up the political atmosphere, warning that any attempts to disrupt the current leadership would be resisted. “We want peace in Lagos, and peace we will achieve,” the statement concluded.
Obasa, however, has refused to concede defeat. In a recent address to his supporters at his residence in Ikeja, he declared that he remains the “authentic Speaker” of the Lagos State House of Assembly, arguing that his removal did not follow due process. Obasa questioned the legality of the impeachment process, urging his colleagues to follow the constitutional procedure if they wish to remove him.
“I respect my colleagues, but if you want to remove me, do it the proper way,” Obasa said. He added that he had no fear of being removed, having served as Speaker for over ten years, but insisted that any removal should be done constitutionally.
Obasa’s impeachment followed a motion filed by Honourable Femi Saheed and seconded by Honourable Aro Moshood Abiodun, citing allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office. The former Speaker was reportedly in the United States at the time of the impeachment announcement.
