Lagos Assembly Impeaches Speaker Mudashiru Obasa Over Misconduct Allegations

In a landmark decision, the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa over allegations of gross misconduct, marking the end of his nearly decade-long tenure as the leader of the legislative body.

Obasa, who was reportedly on a trip to the United States during the impeachment proceedings, faced accusations of financial mismanagement, authoritarian leadership, and lack of transparency in the Assembly's affairs. His impeachment, which saw 32 out of 40 lawmakers supporting the motion, was met with celebrations among Assembly members.

The motion, citing Section 92(2)(c) of the 1999 Constitution, was introduced by Femi Saheed, representing Kosofe Constituency II. Saheed alleged that Obasa’s leadership was characterized by persistent lateness, intimidation of lawmakers, and high-handedness. Aro Moshood Abiodun of Ikorodu II seconded the motion, and the decision was finalized through a voice vote.

New Leadership and Administrative Changes

Following the impeachment, Deputy Speaker Mrs. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, representing Apapa Constituency I, was unanimously elected as the new Speaker, making history as the first woman to hold the position. Fatai Mojeed (Ibeju-Lekki I) was elected as the Deputy Speaker.

The Assembly also suspended Clerk Olalekan Onafeko, appointing Abubakar Taiwo Ottun as Acting Clerk. The impeachment proceedings unfolded under tight security, with police cordoning off the Assembly complex to maintain order.

Meanwhile, a group of protesters from Obasa’s constituency attempting to enter the premises were detained by security personnel. Staff members at the Assembly were seen removing Obasa's portraits and celebrating the leadership change.

Allegations of Financial Misconduct

Obasa’s impeachment stemmed from a series of allegations, including:

Misappropriating ₦44 billion for vehicle purchases.

Spending ₦15.6 billion on office construction despite functional facilities.

Awarding contracts to himself through proxies.

Allocating ₦80 million for lawmakers’ wives’ training allowances in Dubai.

In 2020, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigated Obasa for allegedly operating over 60 bank accounts. More recently, he was accused of spending ₦17 billion on constructing a gate for the Assembly complex and ₦200 million on a thanksgiving service.

Controversial Tenure

Obasa's tenure was also marked by strained relations within the government. In 2023, the Assembly rejected 17 of 39 commissioner-nominees, raising concerns over a possible rift between the Speaker and the state governor.

Another contentious issue under Obasa’s leadership was the proposed 2024 Lagos State Local Council Administration Law, which sought to replace 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) with the constitutionally recognized 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs), sparking public outcry.

Looking Ahead

Obasa’s removal signals a turning point for the Lagos State House of Assembly as it seeks to restore credibility and public trust. The newly elected Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, faces the challenge of uniting lawmakers and addressing the Assembly’s tarnished image.