There is confusion in the Lagos State House of Assembly as embattled Speaker Mudashiru Obasa on Thursday declared that he was never removed.
Obasa said lawmakers must follow due process and constitutional means to impeach or remove him, but that was not done.
In January, lawmakers had impeached Obasa, who was in the United States (US), over alleged misappropriation and other allegations.
Obasa’s deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was sworn in to replace him as the new Speaker, and she received the endorsement of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC).
Upon his return to Nigeria, Obasa declared his impeachment null and void because it failed to stand the test of due process.
On Thursday, Obasa stormed the Assembly Complex with a retinue of armed, stern-looking uniformed security operatives as he walked into the hallowed chambers, saying he is the Speaker and has resumed his duties.
Obasa’s appearance was his first in the Assembly since his removal as Lagos Speaker on Monday, January 13, 2025.
In a show of solidarity, his supporters gathered at the entrance gate of the Assembly Complex, chanting and cheering for the lawmaker, who represents Agege Constituency I in the 40-member House.
However, speaking to journalists in the Assembly Complex on whether he was reinstated as Speaker, Obasa said, “I’ve never been removed. Impeachment or removal is democratic and constitutional, but in doing that, you must follow due process. I am not against that. If I do that, then I am not democratic.”
Meanwhile, a group of lawmakers loyal to Mojisola Meranda, who represents Apapa Constituency I, rejected Obasa, insisting that Meranda remained the Speaker.
Back in January, Obasa was removed as Lagos Speaker when more than two-thirds of the House voted him out over alleged misconduct and sundry offences.
Obasa’s then deputy, Meranda, was immediately elected as the new Speaker, becoming the first female to take charge of the legislative body in the South-West state.
Lagos: Drama as Obasa insists he was never removed as Speaker, lawmakers back Meranda
