Mudashiru Obasa has been reinstated as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who stepped down from the role with immediate effect.
His return to leadership was confirmed during Monday’s plenary session, marking a significant resolution to the intense power struggle that had gripped the legislative body in recent months.
Obasa’s reinstatement comes after his impeachment in January by over 90% of the lawmakers, who accused him of poor leadership, high-handedness, absenteeism, abuse of office, and intimidation of colleagues.
Despite the overwhelming support for his removal, he vehemently rejected the impeachment process, arguing that due process was not followed.
He maintained that he remained the legitimate Speaker, stating, “I believe strongly that I am still the Speaker until the right thing has been done.
If you want to remove me, remove me the proper way, and I will not contest it.” He also denied allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement, dismissing the claims as baseless.
The leadership crisis within the House of Assembly soon caught the attention of prominent figures in the All Progressives Congress (APC).
On the directive of President Bola Tinubu, former governors Bisi Akande of Osun, Segun Osoba of Ogun, and Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos intervened to mediate between the warring factions.
Following a crucial reconciliation meeting on Monday, Meranda tendered her resignation alongside other top principal executives, paving the way for Obasa’s reinstatement.
Addressing the Assembly upon his return, Obasa expressed gratitude to his colleagues and called for unity. He reassured Lagosians that the House had resolved its differences and was determined to serve the people’s interests.
“Our primary responsibility is to represent them, and that is what we have been doing,” he stated. He further emphasized that the Assembly remains strong, maintaining its integrity and ability to resolve internal conflicts in the interest of governance and the ruling party.
“What is happening here today shows that the Lagos State House of Assembly is capable and is a House of integrity.
Today is not a day for speeches but for celebrating my colleagues and thanking them for their dedication,” he added.
With the leadership crisis now seemingly resolved, all eyes will be on the Lagos Assembly to see how it moves forward under Obasa’s renewed leadership.