By Capital Watch Media
The Lagos State House of Assembly has been thrown into further disarray following the return of impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who declared his resumption on Thursday despite his earlier removal from office.
Obasa announced his return with the backing of armed security operatives.
“I’ve resumed, and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly,” he stated after arriving at the Assembly complex.
Obasa was impeached on 13 January 2025 by lawmakers over alleged misappropriation of funds while he was in the United States.
Following his removal, his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was sworn in as Speaker.
Upon his return, Obasa contested his impeachment, arguing that the process did not follow due legal procedure.
This has intensified the leadership tussle within the Assembly.
In a related development, the police escort attached to Speaker Meranda was reportedly withdrawn, along with security personnel assigned to the Assembly complex.
A source confirmed the withdrawal, saying, “As we speak, all security has been withdrawn from the Speaker, and she is now on her own.”
This has reportedly left Meranda without formal protection, raising concerns about her safety.
The sudden withdrawal of security has been linked to Obasa’s return, sparking confusion over the Assembly’s leadership and security arrangements.
Despite the controversy, Meranda’s appointment had received the backing of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council, GAC, following Obasa’s impeachment.
With both parties claiming the Speakership, calls have been made for the intervention of relevant authorities to prevent further escalation of the crisis.
As the situation unfolds, lawmakers and observers await clarity on the Assembly’s leadership and the restoration of security within the complex.
