In a significant political upheaval, the Lagos State House of Assembly has impeached its Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, following multiple allegations of statutory and financial misconduct. The decision, reached during a plenary session on Monday, January 13, 2025, led to the appointment of Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker.
Background and Allegations
Mudashiru Obasa, 52, has been a prominent figure in Lagos politics, serving as Speaker since June 8, 2015. His tenure has been marred by repeated accusations of corruption and abuse of office. In December 2024, Obasa faced allegations of authorizing a N17 billion expenditure for constructing a gate for the Assembly, a claim he vehemently denied, attributing it to political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections.
Further compounding his challenges, a youth movement petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in December 2024, accusing Obasa of financial misconduct, including the alleged misappropriation of N200 million for a thanksgiving event. Obasa dismissed these allegations as politically motivated and lacking in substance.
Impeachment Proceedings
The impeachment proceedings were swift, with members citing “multiple statutory and financial infractions” as grounds for Obasa’s removal. Notably, Obasa was reportedly in Atlanta, USA, at the time of his impeachment, raising questions about his awareness of the proceedings.
Appointment of New Speaker
Following Obasa’s removal, Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda was unanimously elected as the new Speaker. Representing Apapa Constituency 1, Meranda has a distinguished legislative career, including serving as the Chief Whip of the House. Her appointment marks a significant milestone, as she becomes one of the few women to hold such a prominent legislative position in Lagos State.
This is not the first time Obasa has faced scrutiny. In 2020, he was accused of operating multiple bank accounts and misappropriating funds, allegations he denied. An investigation by the Lagos State House of Assembly at the time cleared him of any wrongdoing.
Obasa’s impeachment underscores the Lagos State House of Assembly’s commitment to accountability and transparency. Political analysts suggest that this development could have far-reaching implications for Lagos State’s political landscape, especially with general elections on the horizon.
As of now, Obasa has not issued an official statement regarding his impeachment. The EFCC has not confirmed whether new investigations will commence following his removal from office.
The ousting of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa represents a pivotal moment in Lagos State politics, highlighting the Assembly’s resolve to address allegations of corruption within its ranks. The appointment of Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker signals a potential shift towards more inclusive and transparent governance.
As the situation develops, stakeholders and citizens alike will be watching closely to see how these changes influence the state’s political and administrative future.
