The leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly shows no signs of resolution, as the 35 lawmakers who removed Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker have insisted that he will not be reinstated.
Despite Obasa’s claims that he has resumed his position, the lawmakers maintain that Mojisola Meranda remains the legitimate Speaker of the Assembly.
Obasa’s Return Sparks Controversy
On Thursday, Obasa returned to the Assembly complex, accompanied by newly restored security details, and held a plenary session with four lawmakers. Speaking to reporters, he declared:
“I’ve resumed, and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly. I’ve never been removed. Impeachment or removal is democratic and constitutional, but in doing that, you must follow due process.”
His return came after high-profile interventions by APC chieftains, including former Osun and Ogun State Governors, Chief Bisi Akande and Aremo Olusegun Osoba, alongside Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The party leaders had proposed a compromise where both Obasa and Meranda would step down to allow another lawmaker from Lagos West to emerge as Speaker. However, this plan collapsed following Obasa’s unexpected comeback.
Presidency Allegedly Behind Obasa’s Comeback
Insiders suggest that Obasa’s return had the backing of the presidency. Sources revealed that Obasa met with APC leaders close to President Bola Tinubu at the Lagos House, Marina, before making his move.
One APC chieftain stated:
“The meeting lasted from Wednesday evening into the early hours of Thursday. By morning, it was clear that something was about to happen in Obasa’s favor. His return was not accidental.”
The development has also fueled speculation that Tinubu’s loyalists are directly influencing the Lagos Assembly crisis.
Tension at the Assembly Complex
On Friday, the Lagos Assembly complex was heavily guarded by security operatives, including police officers and DSS personnel. Access was restricted, with a significant number of armed officers stationed around the premises.
A female Assembly staff member confirmed:
“The security situation is unusual. It started yesterday, and today the number of officers has doubled.”
Legal Battle Over Speakership
The crisis has spilled into the courts, as Obasa has filed a suit challenging his removal. However, a courtroom drama unfolded on Friday when two lawyers claimed to be representing the Assembly.
Senior lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, appeared as counsel for the Assembly, but another lawyer, Abang Mkpandiok, argued that he had been newly appointed to represent the lawmakers. The court deferred the application for a change of counsel and adjourned the case until March 7.
Meanwhile, Speaker Meranda criticized Obasa’s actions, calling his plenary with four lawmakers a “show of shame.”
“If you are sitting with three or four members, you’re only doing a drama,” she said.
Lawmakers Stand Firm Against Obasa
Despite Obasa’s attempts to reclaim his position, lawmakers remain resolute in their support for Meranda. The spokesperson for the Assembly, Ogundipe Olukayode, reaffirmed that 35 lawmakers stand with her.
Lawmakers have also accused the presidency of backing Obasa. One legislator stated:
“Obasa cannot be this confident without backing. The President is behind him.”
APC, GAC React
The Governance Advisory Council (GAC) chairman, Tajudeen Olusi, said the group had given private advice to the parties involved, while APC Lagos spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, called for peace, denying Tinubu’s involvement.
However, observers believe the crisis marks a shift in Lagos politics, with the influence of the GAC weakening as internal power struggles escalate.
With both sides refusing to back down, the leadership battle in the Lagos Assembly is far from over.