The legal team of Mudashiru Obasa, the ousted Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has confirmed its decision to proceed with a court case today (Friday) in an attempt to overturn his impeachment and secure his reinstatement.
Obasa, who was removed from office on January 13, 2025, had earlier filed a lawsuit at the Lagos State High Court on February 14, 2025, contesting the legitimacy of his impeachment.
The suit names Mojisola Meranda, the current Speaker, and the Lagos State House of Assembly as defendants. This legal action follows multiple unsuccessful political negotiations between Lagos and Abuja, aimed at resolving the ongoing leadership crisis.
Despite reports of President Bola Tinubu’s alleged directive for Obasa’s reinstatement, the Assembly remains divided, with some lawmakers reportedly expressing concerns about potential retaliation should he return to power.
Obasa’s legal challenge disputes the plenary session that led to his impeachment, arguing that it was unlawfully held during recess without proper authorization.
"The lawsuit challenges the Assembly's decision to hold a session and take proceedings during recess without officially reconvening or granting another person the authority to do so," the court filing states.
The suit also claims that the impeachment process violated sections 36, 90(2)(c), 101, and 311 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), as well as the Lagos State House of Assembly Rules and Standing Orders, specifically Order V Rule 18(2) and Order II Rule 9(i-viii).
Speaking on the case, Obasa’s lead counsel, Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), emphasized that they remain fully committed to the legal proceedings unless instructed otherwise.
"As legal representatives, we will proceed with the case in court unless we are officially debriefed," Fashanu told Punch on Thursday.
The case is expected to be a major legal battle as the political standoff within the Lagos Assembly continues.
