LAGOS – The Lagos State House of Assembly has heightened security measures at its complex as lawmakers convene for a plenary on Monday, The PUNCH reports. This comes amid ongoing political tension following the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa on January 13, 2025, over allegations of misconduct and financial impropriety.
Background: Obasa’s Impeachment and Aftermath
Obasa was ousted by a majority vote of the House, with Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda stepping in as his replacement. Monday’s session marks the third plenary under Meranda’s leadership, with Obasa absent from the previous two sittings.
Despite his impeachment, Obasa remains defiant, declaring himself the rightful Speaker. In a public address on Saturday, he described the allegations against him as baseless, claiming, “If you want to remove me, remove me the proper way and I will not contest it.”
Obasa also refuted accusations of financial mismanagement, such as claims of allocating ₦16 billion for a gate project and purchasing 40 Hilux vehicles at ₦1 billion each. He dismissed these allegations as absurd and politically motivated.
Heightened Security at Assembly Complex
In anticipation of potential disruptions, the acting Clerk of the Assembly issued a notice on Sunday requiring all staff and legislative aides to present valid identification for access. The directive aims to prevent unauthorized entry and ensure a smooth plenary session.
Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Ishola Olawale, assured residents of peace, emphasizing that the police would maintain order outside the assembly complex. “Anyone congregating to foment trouble will be decisively dispersed,” Olawale stated.
Obasa’s Allegations of Police Intimidation
Addressing supporters at the Speaker’s Lodge in Ikeja, Obasa accused the Lagos Police Command of invading his residences on the day of his removal. He alleged that over 200 policemen surrounded his homes in Agege and GRA Ikeja, placing his wife under “house arrest” and barring his children from entering.
However, Commissioner Olawale denied these claims, calling them exaggerated and easily verifiable through the estate’s security personnel. “The man lives within an estate with gatemen. How could 200 policemen invade his house without breaching estate security?”
Efforts Toward Reconciliation
Sources revealed ongoing efforts to mediate the political crisis, with Obasa and the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) scheduled to meet President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday. The meeting is expected to explore solutions to the rift between Obasa and the Assembly.
The source also hinted that Obasa is unlikely to attend Monday’s session, as his presence could escalate tensions. “The focus now is on finding a political solution rather than pursuing legal actions,” the source added.
Mixed Reactions to Obasa’s Removal
Former lawmakers and Assembly insiders have expressed varied opinions about Obasa’s impeachment. Olumuyiwa Jimoh, a former Deputy Majority Leader, described the decision as justified, highlighting the importance of humility in leadership.
Jimoh explained, “As Speaker, your fate lies in the hands of your colleagues. Relating with them as subordinates rather than equals can lead to a quick downfall.”
He added, “The Assembly’s staff and members celebrated his removal like captives freed from a cage. His insistence that he remains Speaker is both unethical and unthinkable.”
The Road Ahead
As the Assembly navigates this politically charged period, attention will focus on the reconciliation efforts spearheaded by President Tinubu. Meanwhile, Meranda’s leadership continues to garner support among lawmakers and Assembly staff, signaling a potential shift in the state’s legislative dynamics.
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