The political turmoil within the Lagos State House of Assembly has taken a dramatic turn, with two lawmakers—Mudashiru Obasa and Mojisola Meranda—both claiming the position of Speaker. The crisis has also extended to the administrative level, as two individuals, Ottun Babatunde and the suspended Olalekan Onafeko, are simultaneously asserting authority as clerks of the Assembly.
The controversy began on January 13, 2025, when 33 lawmakers voted to remove Obasa as Speaker, citing financial misconduct, abuse of office, and other infractions. Meranda, the former Deputy Speaker, was subsequently elected to replace him. However, Obasa, who was away in the United States at the time, rejected his removal upon returning to Lagos on January 25, further fueling the crisis.
Efforts by prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders, including former governors Bisi Akande and Olusegun Osoba, failed to resolve the leadership dispute. Even the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) has struggled to mediate, with some members believing only President Bola Tinubu can break the deadlock.
The situation took another twist last Thursday when Obasa made a bold return to the Assembly complex, accompanied by security personnel. His presence caused shockwaves, especially as police officers previously assigned to Meranda were withdrawn that same morning. While some speculated that the security reshuffle favored Obasa, the Lagos State Police Command later clarified that the withdrawals were part of a routine personnel audit. The police also confirmed that Obasa had requested protection due to alleged threats against him.
Despite his reinstatement efforts, Obasa faced resistance from 35 lawmakers, with only four members supporting his claim to the Speakership. He defended his position, stating, “I have never been removed. There is no impeachment. Any such process must follow due legal procedures.” Meanwhile, Meranda dismissed his attempt to reconvene the House with only a handful of lawmakers, calling it “a mere spectacle.”
The Assembly now faces uncertainty, with both Obasa and Meranda adjourning plenary indefinitely. As tensions persist, political observers fear the crisis may follow the precedent set in Rivers State, where rival factions similarly battled for legislative control.
While the APC and GAC continue consultations, it remains unclear which faction will ultimately call the next sitting. Until then, Lagosians watch as their legislative body remains mired in an unprecedented power struggle.