Mudashiru Obasa has been reinstated as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda. Meranda, who had taken over the role after Obasa’s impeachment in January, stepped down on Monday, leading to his return during the plenary session.
Obasa’s removal earlier in the year was driven by multiple allegations, including poor leadership, high-handedness, frequent lateness to plenary sessions, and intimidation of colleagues. More than 90% of the lawmakers supported his impeachment, making his removal one of the most significant political shake-ups in the Assembly’s history.
Reacting to his impeachment, Obasa firmly rejected the process, claiming that due procedure was not followed. He also denied allegations of financial misappropriation, calling them baseless. “My status in the House? I believe strongly I am still the speaker until the right thing has been done. If you want to remove me, remove me the proper way, and I will not contest it,” Obasa had said at the time.
In an effort to resolve the leadership crisis, prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including former governors Bisi Akande, Segun Osoba, and Akinwunmi Ambode, intervened. Their mediation, reportedly carried out on the directive of President Bola Tinubu, led to a reconciliation meeting with all lawmakers.
Following the discussions, Meranda and other key principal officers voluntarily resigned, paving the way for Obasa’s reinstatement. Announcing her decision at the plenary session, Meranda stated, “This is a notice of resignation as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.” Her decision was met with acknowledgment from lawmakers who had earlier praised her leadership.
Obasa, upon resuming his position, expressed gratitude to his colleagues and called for unity within the Assembly. “We want to assure Lagosians that we are determined to serve their interest and protect their rights at all times,” he said. He also emphasized the Assembly’s internal capacity to resolve conflicts, adding, “What is happening here today shows that the Lagos State House of Assembly is capable and is a House of integrity.”
