By Alade Adisa
No fewer than 35 members of the Lagos State House of Assembly opposed to former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa arrived at the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja as the court began hearing the suit filed by Obasa to challenge his removal from office.
Meanwhile, the lawmakers have described Obasa’s purported resumption of office and duties on Thursday afternoon as null and void, calling it a purely criminal act.
Obasa filed the lawsuit to contest his removal by 36 of his colleagues on January 13, 2025. The Lagos State House of Assembly has 40 members.
Obasa Challenges Removal in Court
In an application dated February 12, 2025, filed by his lawyer, Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), Obasa argued that he was removed from his position while he was out of the country.
The defense team includes:
- Prof. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN) – representing Speaker Mojisola Meranda,
- Mr. Olu Daramola (SAN),
- Mr. Femi Falana (SAN),
- Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN),
- Mrs. Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN),
- Dr. Dada Awosika (SAN),
- Prof. Dayo Amokaye (SAN),
- Mr. Mofe Oyetibo (SAN), and
- Mr. Olumide Oyewole.
The Lagos State House of Assembly, in a statement from the media office of Speaker Mojisola Meranda, strongly condemned Obasa’s attempt to convene a plenary session alongside three members.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the rules governing plenary sessions of the House are clear. A valid sitting requires:
- A formal notice to all members,
- The presence of a quorum,
- An approved agenda, and
- The mace—an essential symbol of legislative authority.
None of these procedural requirements were met during the purported session, with only five out of 40 members present, rendering it unconstitutional and without legislative effect,” the House stated in a press release on Friday, signed by its spokesman, Hon. Steve Ogundipe.
“As an institution dedicated to the progress and development of Lagos State, we shall continue to act within the confines of the law to protect and preserve democratic governance,” the statement added.
Meranda Retains Speaker Position, Dismisses Resignation Rumors
Source: Channels TV
The Assembly reaffirmed its unwavering support for Speaker Mojisola Meranda, stating that she continues to demonstrate dedication to the service of Lagosians.
“Any speculation suggesting her resignation is entirely unfounded. She remains firmly in office and enjoys the confidence and support of 36 colleagues,” the statement concluded.
Addressing journalists after today’s hearing, Speaker Mojisola Meranda reaffirmed that she is the legitimate Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
She accused Obasa of forcefully breaking into her office and confirmed that her security personnel have not been fully reinstated.
“I remain the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, and my colleagues have reaffirmed their confidence in my leadership. It is unfortunate that Obasa resorted to forcefully entering my office, which is unacceptable in a democratic institution,” she said.
She further stated that she expects a full restoration of her security details, emphasizing the need for order and respect for the rule of law in the legislative arm of government.
