Mudashiru Obasa, who represents Agege Constituency I, has been re-elected as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda. The re-election took place on Monday, bringing an end to the seven-week-long leadership crisis that rocked the 40-member legislative body.
Obasa’s return to the Speaker’s seat was facilitated by his nomination from Noheem Adams, a former Majority Leader representing Eti-Osa Constituency I. The embattled lawmaker took the oath of office, marking a dramatic comeback after being removed from office on January 13, 2025, over allegations of misconduct and abuse of power.
Obasa was first elected into the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2007 and became Speaker in June 2015. However, his leadership was cut short in January 2025, following a motion by Femi Saheed, citing allegations of financial misconduct, abuse of office, and authoritarian leadership.
His impeachment had paved the way for Mojisola Meranda to make history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. However, Meranda’s tenure lasted only 49 days before her resignation amid intense political pressure.
Leadership Crisis at the Assembly
The leadership crisis in the Lagos Assembly escalated when Obasa rejected his removal, claiming that due process was not followed during the impeachment process. He argued that the motion to remove him took place in his absence while he was out of the country.
On February 17, 2025, tensions flared at the Assembly Complex when security operatives clashed with legislative workers, deepening the crisis. Thirty-six lawmakers loyal to Meranda passed a vote of confidence in her leadership and adjourned sittings indefinitely.
Despite the resistance, Obasa made a bold return to the Assembly Complex on February 27, 2025, escorted by heavily armed security operatives. His reappearance marked the first time he had entered the legislative chambers since his controversial impeachment.
A House Divided
With Obasa re-elected, this signals a possible resolution to the leadership struggle, political analysts say the crisis has exposed deep divisions within the Lagos State House of Assembly. Some lawmakers continue to question the legitimacy of Obasa’s return, while others have pledged loyalty to him in hopes of restoring stability to the House.
Speaking with 9am News Nigeria, a lawmaker who preferred to remain anonymous said:
“This whole drama has weakened the Assembly and cast a shadow over our democratic processes. We hope that this chapter will finally close, and the House can focus on serving the people of Lagos.”
With Obasa back at the helm, all eyes are now on the Lagos State House of Assembly to see how the leadership will reunite and address pressing legislative matters. However, analysts believe that restoring unity and public trust will be an uphill battle for the returning Speaker.
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