The former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has filed a lawsuit against the Assembly and its new Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, challenging the legality of his removal. Obasa argues that his impeachment on January 13, 2025, was unconstitutional as it occurred while the Assembly was on recess and while he was out of the country.
The suit, filed before the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja, has yet to be assigned to a judge. In his application dated February 12, 2025, Obasa, through his lawyer, Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), is seeking the court’s declaration that his removal was unlawful.
Obasa’s legal challenge is based on the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) and the Rules and Standing Orders of the Lagos State House of Assembly. He contends that:
- The House was in recess when the impeachment was conducted.
- The Speaker is the only one constitutionally empowered to convene the House or delegate such authority.
- The impeachment process violated the House’s rules and procedures.
As part of his lawsuit, Obasa is seeking the following reliefs:
- A declaration that his impeachment was illegal and void.
- An accelerated hearing to resolve the case quickly and prevent further disruption of legislative activities.
- A time limit of seven days for the defendants to file counter-affidavits or written responses.
- A three-day limit for the plaintiff to file replies on points of law.
Mudashiru Obasa was removed as Speaker by 36 out of 40 lawmakers, who cited alleged misconduct and other offences. Following his impeachment, his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was elected as the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly.
Obasa, who returned from abroad on January 25, 2025, received a hero’s welcome at his residence in GRA, Ikeja, where he addressed his supporters. He maintained that due process was not followed and accused security forces of aiding his removal.
The former Speaker alleged that over 200 security officers, led by the state’s commissioner of police, invaded his homes in Agege and Ikeja, locking his family indoors. He also dismissed allegations of misappropriation leveled against him.
With no date fixed for the hearing, the legal battle over Mudashiru Obasa’s impeachment is expected to shape Lagos politics significantly. As the case unfolds, its outcome will determine whether Obasa will regain his position or if Mojisola Meranda’s leadership remains undisputed.
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