By Gideon Maxwell
March 3, 2025
The Lagos State House of Assembly has witnessed a significant shift in leadership with Mudashiru Obasa’s reinstatement as Speaker following a tumultuous period that began with his impeachment on January 13, 2025.
His return, confirmed during a plenary session on March 3, 2025, was marked by the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who had briefly succeeded him as Speaker.
Background of the crisis
Obasa was impeached by an overwhelming majority of lawmakers over allegations of financial misconduct and abuse of office.
His removal was followed by the election of Meranda, making her the first female Speaker in the history of the Lagos Assembly.
However, Obasa contested his impeachment, describing it as unconstitutional and procedurally flawed.
He subsequently filed a lawsuit seeking to nullify his removal and restore him to office.
Political maneuvering
The reinstatement followed weeks of intense political negotiations and interventions by prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Sources revealed that Tinubu directed lawmakers to reinstate Obasa, citing concerns about the political cost of his removal.
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Meetings involving key stakeholders, including members of the Lagos Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), were held to resolve the crisis.
Obasa’s return to power was dramatic. On February 27, 2025, he declared himself Speaker after entering the Assembly complex with police and State Security Service escorts.
This move heightened tensions within the House as no fresh election had been conducted to reinstate him.
During Monday’s plenary session, however, Noheem Adams, a lawmaker representing Eti-Osa I, formally nominated him for reinstatement following Meranda’s resignation.
Reshuffling leadership roles
With Obasa’s reinstatement, key leadership positions in the Assembly were reshuffled:
– Mojisola Meranda returned to her previous role as Deputy Speaker.
– Adewale Temitope was named Majority Leader.
– Richard Kasumu became Deputy Majority Leader.
– David Setonji resumed as Deputy Chief Whip.
– Mojeed Fatai was appointed Chief Whip.
Obasa’s remarks
In his acceptance speech, Obasa expressed gratitude to APC leaders and colleagues for their support during the crisis.
He commended their efforts in ensuring his return and pledged to work towards unity within the Assembly.
Implications
The reinstatement has raised questions about governance and internal democracy within the Lagos Assembly.
Critics argue that Obasa’s return reflects undue political influence over legislative processes.
Meanwhile, observers predict that tensions within the Assembly may persist as lawmakers navigate this contentious leadership transition.
The House adjourned indefinitely following Obasa’s reinstatement.
