LAGOS, NIGERIA – The legal team of Mudashiru Obasa, the ousted Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has refuted claims that their client plans to withdraw his lawsuit challenging his removal.
Obasa’s lead counsel, Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), confirmed on Tuesday that he is prepared for the February 28 court hearing, despite ongoing political negotiations to resolve the Assembly crisis.
“Our client has not communicated anything to us regarding withdrawal. So, we are still preparing for the case until otherwise,” Fashanu stated.
Obasa Insists on Court Judgment Before Returning to Assembly
Fashanu emphasized that Obasa would not return to the Assembly until the court delivers its ruling, arguing that any premature return would be illegal.
“If he had wanted to return, he would have done that from day two or three. But he will not take any step that is illegal,” he added.
Political Mediation Ongoing
Following Obasa’s removal on January 13, 2025, President Bola Tinubu deployed Chief Bisi Akande and Aremo Olusegun Osoba to mediate the dispute. Reports suggest that the Governors Advisory Council (GAC) recommended that both Obasa and current Speaker Mojisola Meranda step down for a new Speaker from Lagos West Senatorial District.
However, Obasa’s legal team remains firm on pursuing the case.
Court Remands Three Assembly Workers Over DSS Assault
In a related development, the Federal High Court in Lagos on Tuesday ordered the remand of three Lagos Assembly workers in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) for allegedly assaulting DSS officers during a confrontation at the Assembly complex on February 17.
The workers, Ibrahim Olanrewaju, Adetu Adekunle, and Fatimoh Adetola, are accused of obstructing DSS officials while they were carrying out their duties.
Justice Daniel Osiagor ruled that they remain in DSS custody pending their arraignment.
More updates to follow as the crisis unfolds.