Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has disassociated himself from the impeachment of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, over allegations of financial misconduct.
Sanwo-Olu’s Media Adviser, Gboyega Akosile, emphasized the independence of the legislature, describing the development as a strictly internal affair. “This is purely a legislative matter, and the Assembly managed it independently. The governor had no involvement,” Akosile told The PUNCH, citing the constitutional principle of separation of powers.
Details surrounding Obasa’s impeachment remain unclear, but sources confirm that the decision was driven by multiple allegations, including misconduct and financial misappropriation. Reports indicate that 90 percent of the Assembly members supported the motion to remove him.
Obasa, who represented Agege State Constituency I and served as Speaker since 2015, was replaced by Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, who becomes the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly. Mojeed Fatai was elected as the new Deputy Speaker.
A viral video captured a lawmaker addressing the Assembly, stating, “Change is inevitable. Today, we decided to restructure the House’s leadership. Hon. Mojisola Meranda is now the Speaker, and Hon. Fatai Adebola is the Deputy Speaker. This decision was unanimously agreed upon by all members.”
Meanwhile, Obasa’s Chief Press Secretary, Eromosele Ebhomele, has not responded to inquiries about the situation.
The former Speaker faces allegations of financial mismanagement, including claims that the Assembly spent ₦17 billion on constructing a gate. Obasa has dismissed these allegations as politically motivated and “laughable,” arguing that such claims lack substance given the Assembly’s annual allocation.
The impeachment has fueled speculations about Obasa’s political ambitions. During the presentation of the 2025 budget in November 2024, Obasa hinted at a possible run for Lagos governor in 2027. Some observers believe his ambition posed a threat to powerful political interests in the state.
Tai Benedict, Deputy Chairman of the Lagos PDP, suggested that Obasa’s removal was inevitable due to his governorship aspirations. “Obasa’s background as a true Lagosian is seen as a threat. His political ambition may have triggered this development,” Benedict stated.
The APC, however, has denied any involvement in the impeachment process. State Publicity Secretary Seye Oladejo reiterated the party’s respect for legislative independence, dismissing claims of undue influence.
The Labour Party and other stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation. Lagos Labour Party Secretary, Sam Okpala, remarked, “The Speaker isn’t a member of our party. We’re observing the APC handle its internal issues.”
Former Deputy Majority Leader Muyiwa Jimoh described Obasa’s impeachment as overdue. “We identified his shortcomings during his tenure but hoped for corrections. This decision reflects the collective interest of the state,” Jimoh said.