The leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly has deepened as lawmakers have rejected the claim by former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa that he remains the head of the assembly.
Addressing journalists at the assembly complex on Thursday, the legislators reaffirmed their support for Mojisola Meranda, insisting that she is the duly elected speaker.
Obasa was impeached on January 13, 2025, over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. Following his removal, Mojisola Meranda, the former deputy speaker, was elected as his replacement, making her the first female speaker of the Lagos Assembly.
However, on February 27, Obasa, accompanied by heavily armed security personnel, forcefully resumed office, declaring himself as the legitimate speaker. His action has escalated tensions within the assembly, leading to a standoff between his supporters and those backing Speaker Meranda.
There are also reports that security aides attached to Meranda have been withdrawn, while those assigned to Obasa have been restored, raising concerns about potential bias in the handling of the crisis.
As the impasse continues, the lawmakers have vowed to resist any attempt to undermine the assembly’s decision, emphasizing that Meranda remains the legitimate leader. The assembly is expected to reconvene in the coming days to address the leadership dispute and determine the next steps.
