Obasa reinstated as Lagos Assembly Speaker

The lawmaker representing Agege Constituency I, Mudashiru Obasa, has been reinstated as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Obasa was sworn in after Mojisola Meranda resigned as the Speaker of the House on Monday, March 3, 2025.

Obasa had earlier disclosed that Mojisola Meranda voluntarily resigned from her position as Speaker during a reconciliation meeting.

The lawmaker stated that Meranda announced her resignation at the peace meeting held recently at Lagos House, Marina, in the presence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, February 27, Obasa said: “When my security was withdrawn without my consent, did I complain?

“At the meeting held in Marina, which saw the attendance of all party leaders, it was made clear, with hopes that all members were present, that Meranda herself declared her resignation. She made it known that she has stepped down.

“Now, when someone resigns from office, the associated paraphernalia is taken away.

Meranda resigns as Lagos Assembly Speaker

“So, the question arises: Have you also resigned? Because we understand that part of the arrangement is for you to step down as well. Let them present the resignation letter. And if I were to resign, would I still be here? I’m sure you’d still address me as Speaker, even though we’ve never had a conversation before.”

Obasa added that the decision by 36 out of the 40 House members to unseat him was not valid, stressing that he remains the legitimate Speaker of the House

“I have never been removed. I am not against removal, but it must follow the rules of the House and the Constitution,” he said.

Obasa had earlier on Thursday arrived at the Assembly complex with security operatives, declaring himself Speaker and conducting a plenary session attended by only four lawmakers.

The crisis rocking the House commenced after 32 lawmakers removed Obasa and Clerk Olalekan Onafeko in January.

Obasa was replaced by his former deputy, Meranda, as the new Speaker.

The crisis intensified on February 17 when the Department of State Services (DSS) operatives sealed off the Assembly complex, preventing a plenary session.

Despite this, lawmakers forced their way into the chambers, held a session, and adjourned indefinitely, declaring a vote of confidence in Meranda.

Obasa has filed a lawsuit against Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, challenging his removal. The court is expected to hear the case on Friday.

The Star