On Monday, members of the Lagos State House of Assembly unanimously impeached the Speaker of the House, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
The motion for his removal was introduced by Hon. Obafemi Saheed, representing Kosofe Constituency 2, under the matter of urgent public importance, citing relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
Hon. Obasa, who was out of the country in the United States, was promptly replaced by his deputy, Hon. Mojisola Meranda of Apapa Constituency 1. Meranda, a former Chief Whip of the House, took over as acting Speaker. Hon. Mojeed Fatai was subsequently elected as the new Deputy Speaker.
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Obasa’s impeachment followed several allegations, including highhandedness, gross misconduct, poor leadership, lack of commitment to legislative duties, and disrespect for fellow lawmakers.
He was also accused of intimidating and suppressing legislative staff. Additional charges included financial impropriety, misappropriation of funds, lack of transparency, abuse of office and privileges, and authoritarianism.
The impeached Speaker was also said to have been in constant conflict with the executive arm of government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and was often absent from key state functions.
Furthermore, Obasa’s ambition to run for the governorship seat in the 2027 general election reportedly put him at odds with other potential candidates.
In a move that many viewed as an attempt to undermine Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who is also eyeing the governorship, Obasa had, during the November budget presentation by Governor Sanwo-Olu, summoned the deputy governor to sit at his place in a gesture that many considered disrespectful to the office.
During the 2025 budget presentation, Obasa further provoked public ire by claiming that past leaders of Lagos State were not superior to him, a remark widely seen as an insult to the state’s political history.
To finalize his removal, the motion for Obasa’s impeachment was seconded by Hon. Aro Moshood Abiodun, representing Ikorodu 2. The motion was put to a voice vote three times by Acting Speaker Meranda, with all lawmakers affirming the impeachment, while no one opposed the motion.
Speaking to journalists at the Assembly complex, Hon. Abiodun Tobun, representing Epe Constituency 1, confirmed that the impeachment was a unanimous decision.
He emphasized that the move was essential to uphold the integrity of both the legislature and the state.
“The lawmakers agreed to take this step to safeguard our image and Lagos State. Change is inevitable, and we felt it was time for a new direction,” Tobun said.
He explained that the 1999 Constitution (as amended) grants the Assembly the authority to regulate its proceedings, and the members of the House reached a consensus to conclude Obasa’s tenure.
After the impeachment, Hon. Mojisola Meranda Lasbat was sworn in as the new Speaker, with Hon. Fatai Ajibola taking on the role of Deputy Speaker.
“All standing committees and principal officer positions have been dissolved. We are determined to work together to elevate the Assembly and deliver on our responsibilities to Lagosians,” Tobun added.
Lawmakers have assured the public of their unwavering commitment to the progress and stability of Lagos State under the new leadership.
As a gesture of acceptance in the spirit of the new collaboration, the Conference 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Area Chairmen in Lagos State extended their congratulations to Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda on her election as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
In a statement, the Conference 57 commended Meranda for her dedication, competence, and commitment to public service, emphasizing that her election represents the state’s progressive values and its inclusive approach to governance.
The forum expressed confidence in Meranda’s ability to provide strong legislative leadership, drive development, and uphold democratic principles.
They pledged their support and collaboration, wishing her a successful tenure marked by transformative achievements.
The statement, signed by the chairman Hon. Alabi Kolade David and Public Relations Officer Bldr. Olusesan Daini on behalf of the Conference 57, concluded with heartfelt congratulations to Madam Speaker.
Meanwhile, some staff members of the State Assembly were seen celebrating the impeachment of former Speaker Obasa.
They openly expressed their dissatisfaction with his leadership, claiming that he had been neglectful of the welfare of the Assembly staff.
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