The Lagos State House of Assembly, on Monday, impeached Mudashiru Obasa, its former Speaker, citing a range of allegations that include financial misconduct, poor leadership, and incitement among lawmakers.
The decision marks the end of Obasa’s decade-long tenure as Speaker and ushers in a new chapter under the leadership of Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, the first female Speaker in the Assembly’s history.
The impeachment, which took place on Monday, followed a motion raised under the Matter of Urgent Public Importance by Femi Saheed, a lawmaker in the Assembly. The motion cited Section 92(2)(C) of the Nigerian Constitution and accused Obasa of gross misconduct.
Some of the key charges against him include:
Persistent Lateness: Obasa was accused of regularly arriving late to legislative sessions and meetings, which disrupted the Assembly’s proceedings.
Highhandedness: His leadership style was described as authoritarian and undemocratic, with allegations of intimidation and a lack of respect for his colleagues.
Incitement of Lawmakers: Obasa reportedly fostered division among members by encouraging them to oppose one another.
Abuse of Office: Allegations of financial mismanagement and misuse of privileges further eroded trust in his leadership.
Femi Saheed emphasized that these actions were detrimental to the integrity and progress of the Assembly. “The leadership style and actions of the former Speaker have greatly affected the unity and productivity of this House,” he noted during the session.
Following the impeachment, the Assembly premises were heavily secured to prevent any potential unrest. Armed personnel from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Lagos Task Force, and the state police command were deployed to maintain order.
Reports indicated that some miscreants, allegedly loyal to Obasa, attempted to gain unauthorized entry into the complex. They were intercepted and arrested, with some carrying charms and amulets. The swift action by security forces ensured that the proceedings continued without interruption.
With Obasa removed, the Assembly unanimously elected Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, representing Apapa Constituency I, as the new Speaker. Her appointment is a historic moment, as she becomes the first female Speaker in the Assembly’s history. Fatai Mojeed was also elected as Deputy Speaker, marking a fresh start for the legislative body.
The Assembly also addressed internal administrative changes, suspending the Clerk, Olalekan Onafeko, who had been closely associated with Obasa. He has been replaced by Abubakar Ottun as Acting Clerk.
