Lagos Assembly Members Impeach Speaker Obasa in Absentia: The Real Reasons

On Monday, members of the Lagos State House of Assembly unanimously impeached Speaker Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, who was absent in the U.S. at the time. The motion for his removal was moved by Hon. Obafemi Saheed, citing gross misconduct, financial impropriety, poor leadership, and disregard for fellow lawmakers.

Additional allegations included mismanagement of funds, authoritarianism, and disrespect for the executive arm, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Obasa’s ambitions to run for governor in 2027 were seen as a contributing factor to his impeachment, especially after his controversial actions toward the deputy governor. The impeachment motion was seconded by Hon. Aro Moshood Abiodun, and all lawmakers supported it during a voice vote.

Following Obasa’s removal, Hon. Mojisola Meranda was sworn in as the new Speaker, with Hon. Fatai Ajibola as Deputy Speaker. The Assembly dissolved all standing committees and principal officer positions. The Conference 57 Local Government Chairmen congratulated Meranda as the first female Speaker, expressing confidence in her leadership.

The impeachment was seen by some staff as a relief, with many celebrating Obasa’s removal, citing his poor leadership and neglect of their welfare.