The Lagos State House of Assembly, on Monday, impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa over allegations of gross misconduct, financial mismanagement, and poor leadership.
This decision marked the end of his 10-year tenure as Speaker, Dockaysworld reported.
The motion for Obasa’s removal was raised by Femi Saheed, representing Kosofe Constituency 2, under the “Matter of Urgent Public Importance.”
Citing the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Saheed accused Obasa of lateness to legislative sessions, misuse of funds, abuse of office, and creating divisions among lawmakers.
Following a unanimous voice vote by 32 members, Obasa was removed from office in his absence.
At the time of his impeachment, Obasa was reportedly in the United States.
Lawmakers cited his absence as further evidence of his disregard for the Assembly’s duties and proceedings.
Part of the allegations levelled against the impeached speaker included highhandedness, gross misconduct, poor leadership, lack of commitment to legislative business, lack of regard for fellow lawmakers, intimidation and suppression of legislative staff.
Other allegations levelled against Obasa were financial impropriety, misappropriation of funds, lack of transparency, gross abuse of office and privileges, authoritarianism, among others
In his place, Mojisola Meranda, representing Apapa Constituency 1, was elected Speaker, making history as the first female to hold the position in Lagos State.
Fatai Mojeed, representing Ibeju-Lekki, was chosen as Deputy Speaker.
The Assembly also suspended Clerk Olalekan Onafeko, a close ally of Obasa, replacing him with Abubakar Ottun as Acting Clerk.
During the impeachment process, armed security personnel, including officers from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and Lagos Task Force, were deployed to secure the Assembly complex.
Several individuals believed to be Obasa’s supporters attempted to disrupt proceedings but were intercepted and arrested. Charms and amulets were reportedly recovered from them.
Obasa’s leadership style had drawn criticism for being authoritarian and undemocratic.
He was also accused of banning journalists from covering Assembly activities for over two years and clashing with the state’s executive arm.
Reports revealed that his ambition to run for governor in 2027 further alienated him from colleagues.
Addressing journalists, Abiodun Tobun, representing Epe Constituency 1, stated that the impeachment was necessary to restore order and preserve the Assembly’s integrity.
He assured Lagosians of the lawmakers’ commitment to transparency and effective governance under Meranda’s leadership.
The new Speaker has received widespread support, including endorsements from the Conference 57 Local Government Chairmen.
They praised her competence and pledged their cooperation to ensure a successful tenure focused on progress and development in Lagos State.
