The Lagos State House of Assembly finds itself at the centre of a potential leadership crisis as two lawmakers lay claim to the Speaker’s position. Security around the Assembly Complex is likely to be tightened today amid speculation of a showdown. This follows former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s declaration on Saturday that he remains the rightful Speaker, despite being removed on January 13, 2025, over allegations of misconduct and financial misappropriation.
Obasa, who was replaced by Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, has been absent from the last two plenary sessions presided over by Meranda. Speaking to supporters in Lagos, Obasa denied all allegations of financial misconduct, calling them baseless. He insisted that due legislative procedure was not followed in his removal, stating, “I believe strongly I am still the Speaker until the right thing has been done.”
Security measures, including ID verification at the Assembly Complex, have been enforced to maintain order. The Lagos State Police Command assured the public of calm, with Commissioner Ishola Olawale pledging to prevent disruptions outside the Assembly.
The Commissioner also dismissed allegations by Obasa that over 200 policemen invaded his residence on the day of his removal, calling the claims exaggerated. “Investigations can easily verify these allegations,” Olawale said.
Meanwhile, efforts are reportedly underway to reconcile Obasa with his colleagues and the Lagos State Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC). Reports indicate that Obasa, along with loyalists from the GAC members, is lobbying for a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday. The same source also indicated that Obasa has been advised not to return to the Assembly until after the meeting with President Tinubu and the GAC to resolve the crisis.
A source familiar with the developments stated that the former Speaker has no plans to challenge the impeachment in court, adding that the focus is on finding a political solution to the matter.
As the political standoff continues, observers await the outcome of these reconciliation efforts, which could shape the future leadership of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
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