Newscenter Media News The Lagos State House of Assembly has outlined several reasons behind the impeachment of its former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, citing misconduct, highhandedness, and poor leadership.
Obasa, who represents Agege Constituency, was impeached on Monday after a decade-long tenure. His removal came amid allegations of financial misappropriation, authoritarian leadership, and incitement of lawmakers against one another.
The lawmakers replaced Obasa with Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, representing Apapa I, making her the first female Speaker in the history of the Assembly. The Clerk of the Assembly, Olalekan Onafeko, was also removed and replaced with Abubakar Ottun as Acting Clerk.
During the impeachment proceedings, Femi Saheed, a lawmaker, moved a motion under the Matter of Urgent Public Importance. Saheed cited several grievances, including:
– Perpetual lateness to legislative sessions and meetings.
– Highhandedness and lack of regard for fellow lawmakers.
– Gross abuse of office and privileges.
– Intimidation and oppression of members by inciting divisions among them.
– Authoritarian and undemocratic leadership style.
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“In line with Section 92(2)(C) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we deemed his actions as gross misconduct and poor leadership,” Saheed stated.
Following the motion, all 32 lawmakers present adopted the impeachment through a voice vote.
In the wake of Obasa’s impeachment, armed security personnel, including the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and Lagos State Task Force, were deployed to the Assembly complex. Access to the premises was restricted, and miscreants attempting to storm the complex were arrested.
Security forces also recovered charms and amulets from some individuals believed to be Obasa’s supporters from Agege.
After the impeachment, the Assembly elected Mojisola Meranda as the new Speaker, with Fatai Mojeed emerging as the Deputy Speaker.
Abiodun Tobun, representing Epe Constituency I, spoke on behalf of the lawmakers, explaining the rationale behind the decision.
“The Lagos State House of Assembly unanimously decided to impeach Mudashiru Obasa to safeguard our image and the state,” Tobun said. “Change is inevitable, and we felt it was time for a new direction. We are committed to elevating the Assembly’s performance and delivering on our responsibilities to Lagosians.”
He added that the Assembly had dissolved all standing committees and principal officer positions to usher in a fresh start under the new leadership.
Tobun assured the public of the lawmakers’ dedication to Lagos State’s progress and stability, pledging to work together under Meranda’s leadership.
“This step reflects our resolve to uphold accountability, transparency, and good governance,” Tobun concluded.
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