The impeachment saga surrounding former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, took a dramatic turn on Saturday as Obasa declared himself the rightful speaker of the assembly, citing constitutional provisions. This declaration was made during a welcome event organized in his honor by supporters from Agege, Alimosho, and Kosofe local government areas in Ikeja GRA.

Obasa’s removal from office was as a result of allegations of gross misconduct and financial mismanagement, with 35 out of the 40 members of the assembly voting in favor of his impeachment on January 13, 2025. However, Obasa argued that the process did not follow constitutional procedures, stating that he would accept his removal if it is carried out in accordance with constitutional guidelines.

In response to Obasa’s declaration, the Lagos State House of Assembly issued a statement, signed by Ogundipe Olukayode, warning Obasa against actions capable of destabilizing the legislative arm and heating the polity. The lawmakers reiterated their solidarity with the newly elected Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, and emphasized their commitment to good governance and maintaining a harmonious relationship with other arms of government.

Meranda

“It is imperative to clarify that over two-thirds of the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly are solidly united behind the new Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda. We stand by the decision taken to impeach Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa and we shall defend our position to the latter,” the statement read.

The lawmakers also described Obasa’s recent posture as “uncalled for and unparliamentary,” urging him to embrace peace in the interest of the state. “I appeal to the former Speaker to toe the line of peace and harmony as being followed by others, as the current intransigent posture will heat the polity and not augur well,” Olukayode warned.

Obasa, however, remains defiant, stating that he has been a lawmaker for over two decades and is the longest-serving lawmaker in the House. He also accused the commissioner of police of leading a team to invade the assembly and his personal home, questioning the commissioner’s actions.