Mudashiru Obasa, representing Agege Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, has announced his return as speaker of the 40-member legislative body.
“Obasa is the speaker,” he told journalists on Thursday afternoon at the Assembly premises.
When asked if he had been reinstated, Obasa responded, “I’ve never been removed. Impeachment or removal is democratic and constitutional, but in doing that, you must follow the due process. I am not against that. If I do that, then I am not democratic.”
Despite Obasa’s assertion, lawmakers aligned with Mojisola Meranda, who represents Apapa Constituency I, rejected his claim, insisting that Meranda remains the legitimate speaker.
Obasa arrived at the Assembly Complex on Thursday, accompanied by armed security personnel, marking his first appearance since his removal on January 13, 2025. Supporters of the lawmaker gathered outside the complex, chanting and celebrating his presence.
Obasa was ousted in January when over two-thirds of lawmakers voted for his removal, citing misconduct and various infractions. Meranda, his deputy, was immediately appointed as speaker, making history as the first female to lead the Assembly in Lagos State.
On January 25, 2025, Obasa rejected the impeachment, claiming he remained speaker until due process was followed. He criticized the heavy security presence during the impeachment and argued that the decision was made in his absence while he was outside the country.
Meanwhile, 36 lawmakers backing Meranda maintained that Obasa’s impeachment was final. On February 17, tensions escalated at the Assembly Complex when security forces clashed with legislative staff. Later that day, the lawmakers passed a vote of confidence in Meranda and adjourned indefinitely.
