“Mudashiru Obasa Resumes Role as Lagos Speaker Amid Controversy”

In a dramatic development, the embattled former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, resumed his role on Thursday, presiding over plenary with just four other members in attendance. The session was held under tense circumstances, with security personnel forcibly opening the doors to the chamber to allow the plenary to proceed.

The plenary began at 3:00 pm and continued until about 3:30 pm, despite the absence of many members. Over 26 other lawmakers were present at the assembly complex but refused to enter the chamber, reportedly in a show of loyalty to the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, who succeeded Obasa after his controversial removal in January.

Earlier, Obasa had made an appearance, claiming his return as Speaker, arguing that his impeachment was not in line with due process. “I’ve never been removed,” Obasa said. “Impeachment or removal is democratic and constitutional, but in doing that, you must follow due process. I am not against that. If I do that, then I am not democratic.”

Obasa was removed from his position as Speaker on January 13 while abroad, with Mojisola Meranda swiftly installed as his replacement. However, Obasa has continued to challenge his removal, asserting that he remains the legitimate Speaker of the Lagos Assembly.

The conflict between Obasa and Meranda has caused turmoil within the assembly, with tensions now boiling over as Obasa attempts to reclaim his position. This latest turn in the ongoing drama has further complicated the political landscape in Lagos State.