The Lagos State House of Assembly has impeached its Speaker, Mr. Mudashiru Obasa, in a dramatic move that has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape. The decision was made during an emergency plenary session held on Monday in Ikeja.
Following Obasa’s removal, the House elected and immediately swore in Mrs. Mojisola Meranda (APC-Apapa I), the former Deputy Speaker, as the new Speaker. In a related development, the Chief Whip of the House, Mr. Mojeed Fatai, was unanimously elected as the new Deputy Speaker.
The Clerk of the House, Mr. Olalekan Onafeko, was not spared in the wave of leadership changes, as he was suspended indefinitely. This decision adds to the dramatic reshuffle within the Assembly’s leadership.
In response to the developments, security personnel have taken control of the Assembly complex to prevent any potential breach of peace.
As of the reporting time, official statements from the House or its leadership regarding the reasons for Obasa’s impeachment were still pending. However, sources within the Assembly have hinted that allegations of financial impropriety may have been a critical factor in his removal.
Obasa, who represents the Agege I Constituency under the APC, has been a sixth-term lawmaker at the Assembly’s helm for several years. His tenure was marked by achievements and controversies, particularly accusations of mismanagement of Assembly funds.
The impeachment of Obasa marks a significant turning point in the history of the Lagos State House of Assembly, raising questions about the internal dynamics of the legislative body and the broader implications for the state’s governance.
Political observers will be watching closely as more details unfold about the circumstances surrounding his removal and the future direction of the House under its new leadership.