Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has refuted allegations of corruption leveled against him, labeling them as baseless and politically motivated. Speaking at a welcome event held in his honor in Ikeja GRA on Saturday, Obasa addressed his supporters from Agege, Alimosho, and Kosofe local government areas, emphasizing his commitment to integrity and service.
Obasa’s removal on January 13, as reported by the New Daily Prime, followed allegations of misconduct and financial mismanagement. He was replaced by his former deputy, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lawal-Meranda. However, Obasa dismissed the allegations, including claims that he spent ₦16 billion on constructing a gate for the Assembly and ₦47 billion on purchasing 45 Hilux vehicles at inflated costs.
“Is it possible to construct an ordinary gate with ₦16 billion? It is not the wall of Jericho or the wall that separates the United States and Mexico,” Obasa remarked. “How can they claim we bought one Hilux vehicle for ₦1 billion each and that we purchased 45 for ₦47 billion? It’s completely unrealistic.”
Obasa described the allegations as an attempt to discredit his leadership and integrity. “I have been a lawmaker for over two decades and am the longest-serving lawmaker in the House. I will address these allegations head-on and prove my innocence,” he asserted.
Removal Process Lacked Due Legislative Procedure
Addressing his removal, Obasa insisted there was no proper impeachment process, stating that the attempt to unseat him did not follow the Assembly’s standing rules. “I am not afraid of being removed. After all, it is not my father’s chieftaincy title. I represent my people, and they have returned me six times. If you want to do anything, do it properly,” he said.
Obasa highlighted past leadership changes in the Assembly, noting that these transitions were conducted peacefully and in line with due process. “When former Speaker Rt. Hon. Jokotola Pelumi was removed, he was in the Assembly, and there was no police interference. When my sister, former Deputy Speaker Hon. Adefunmilayo Tejuosho, was removed, we followed due process without external interference,” he said.
Obasa stressed that his tenure as Speaker was marked by dedication and respect for his colleagues. “The Lagos State House of Assembly is above the common standard of excellence. I have served as Speaker for ten years and as a member of the Assembly since 2003. What else am I looking for? Nothing. But due process must be followed,” he stated.
The former Speaker called on stakeholders and lawmakers to protect the integrity of the Lagos State House of Assembly. “They should not discredit an innocent person. Let them prove their allegations against me,” he said.
Obasa expressed gratitude to his supporters and party leaders for their continued backing. He vowed to continue working for the betterment of Lagos State while defending his integrity and reputation.
“For me, I am not disturbed, perturbed, or afraid. I will continue to serve Lagos State and ensure that the values of the Assembly remain intact,” he concluded.
Read Also: Lagos assembly drama: Obasa insists he is a speaker until due process followed
Read Also: Lagos Assembly impeaches Speaker Obasa, elects 1st female head
