By DAYO ADESULU
The Lagos Assembly crisis has taken a legal turn as thirty-five lawmakers who support the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker arrived at the Lagos State High Court for the hearing of a lawsuit filed by Obasa himself.
Lagos Assembly Leadership Faces Legal Showdown Amid Political Turmoil
The embattled former Speaker had earlier challenged his removal, which was orchestrated by at least 36 of his colleagues on January 13, 2025.
According to an application dated February 12, 2025, and filed by his legal counsel, Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), Obasa argued that his removal while he was out of the country was unlawful and did not follow due process.
Legal Teams and High-Profile Representation
The legal battle over the Lagos Assembly crisis has drawn some of Nigeria’s most prominent lawyers. Leading the legal team for the incumbent Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, is Prof. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN).
Other legal representatives for the lawmakers include Mr. Olu Daramola (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN), Mrs. Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN), Dr. Dada Awosika (SAN), Prof. Dayo Amokaye (SAN), Mr. Mofe Oyetibo (SAN), Mr. Olumide Oyewole, and Mr. Wunmi Okeremi.
At the time of filing this report, the courtroom was already packed as the lawmakers settled in for the hearing, which is expected to be a landmark case in the ongoing Lagos Assembly crisis.
Lawmakers Condemn Obasa’s ‘Illegal’ Plenary Session
In a related development, the Lagos State House of Assembly has denounced Obasa’s attempt to reconvene a plenary session, calling it an unconstitutional invasion.
According to an official statement from the office of the Speaker, Hon. Steve Ogundipe, Obasa, along with three other lawmakers, tried to forcefully hold a session without meeting the necessary procedural requirements.
“The Lagos State House of Assembly wishes to bring to the attention of Lagosians, Nigerians, and the global community an incident that occurred on Thursday, involving an unsanctioned attempt to convene a plenary session by the former Speaker, Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, alongside three members,” the statement read.
It further outlined that a valid House session must meet the following conditions:
- A formal notice to all members.
- Presence of a quorum.
- An approved agenda.
- The mace, which symbolizes legislative authority.
“None of these procedural requirements was met during the purported session, with only 5 out of 40 members present, rendering it unconstitutional and without legislative effect.”
Assembly Pledges Stability Amid Political Tensions
The Lagos Assembly crisis has raised concerns about the political stability of the state. However, the House reaffirmed its commitment to upholding legislative integrity and parliamentary standards.
“As an institution dedicated to the progress and development of Lagos State, we shall continue to act within the confines of the law to protect and preserve democratic governance.”
The statement also dismissed rumors that Speaker Mojisola Meranda had resigned, stating that she remains in office with the support of 36 lawmakers.
“Any speculation suggesting her resignation is entirely unfounded. She remains firmly in office and enjoys the confidence and support of her colleagues.”
APC’s Role in Resolving the Lagos Assembly Crisis
The Lagos Assembly crisis has also drawn the attention of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with the party reportedly working towards a resolution. The House emphasized that it would continue to collaborate with party leaders to address misunderstandings and ensure governance remains uninterrupted.
“We align with the leadership of the APC in working towards a constructive resolution of misunderstandings. The House will continue to work in the interest of Lagosians.”
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With the legal battle now unfolding in court, all eyes remain on the judiciary to determine the next chapter in the Lagos Assembly crisis.
