The Lagos State House of Assembly has heightened security measures as lawmakers convene for a plenary session on Monday, following a leadership crisis sparked by the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. Obasa, ousted on January 13, 2025, over allegations of misconduct and financial mismanagement, insists he remains the legitimate speaker, urging his colleagues to follow due process if they wish to remove him.
The current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, will preside over her third plenary since Obasa’s removal. Obasa, absent from the previous two sessions, denies all allegations, calling them baseless and impossible. He addressed supporters on Saturday, vowing to clear his name and challenging claims of extravagant spending, such as constructing a gate for N16 billion or purchasing Hilux vehicles at inflated prices.
The Assembly has mandated staff and aides to present valid identification for entry, with the Lagos State Police Command assuring public order. Police Commissioner Ishola Olawale emphasized that while the police will not interfere in Assembly affairs, they will maintain peace outside the premises. Obasa accused the police of invading his residence during his removal, a claim the CP dismissed as easily verifiable by estate residents.
Efforts are underway to resolve the dispute politically, with Obasa and the Governor’s Advisory Council reportedly set to meet President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday. However, Obasa is unlikely to attend Monday’s session due to the tense atmosphere. Former Deputy Majority Leader Olumuyiwa Jimoh defended Obasa’s removal, stating it serves as a lesson against the abuse of power and highlighting the Assembly’s collective relief at his ousting.
The situation remains fluid, with political reconciliation taking precedence over legal action for now.
