Lagos Assembly Crisis Deepens: Speaker Obasa’s Controversial Return Sparks Political Turmoil Amid Leadership Struggle
The leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly continues to escalate as the 35 lawmakers who voted to remove Speaker Mudashiru Obasa remain adamant that he will not be reinstated. The lawmakers insist that Mojisola Meranda remains the legitimate Speaker, despite Obasa’s claim to have resumed his position.
Obasa arrived at the Assembly complex on Thursday with newly restored security details and held a plenary session with four lawmakers. Addressing reporters, he maintained that his removal did not follow due process and declared, “I’ve resumed, and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly.”
Presidency Allegedly Backs Obasa’s Return
Obasa’s return comes after high-level meetings involving key chieftains of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including former Osun and Ogun State governors, Chief Bisi Akande and Aremo Olusegun Osoba, alongside Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The Governance Advisory Council (GAC) had reportedly recommended that both Obasa and Meranda step down to allow a new Speaker to emerge from the Lagos West Senatorial District. However, the arrangement collapsed following Obasa’s reappearance at the Assembly with security reinforcements.
Reports suggest that President Bola Tinubu’s allies played a role in facilitating Obasa’s comeback. Sources indicate that Obasa met with influential APC leaders at the Lagos House, Marina, late Wednesday, culminating in his return the following morning.
An APC insider described Obasa’s resumption as a “massive political statement,” suggesting that the power struggle within the Assembly is far from over. The same source alleged that the GAC’s failure to resolve the crisis may weaken its influence within the APC, with the President now taking a more direct interest in Lagos politics.
Tight Security at Assembly Complex
By Friday, the Assembly complex was under heavy security surveillance. Armed police officers, task force personnel, and mobile units guarded the premises, restricting movement around the legislative building. At least 25 police patrol vehicles were stationed nearby, while Assembly staff and visitors faced strict scrutiny at the gates.
An Assembly staff member, speaking anonymously, noted that the security buildup intensified following Obasa’s return. “This is unusual. On a normal day, people move freely around the complex, but today it’s practically empty,” she said.
Courtroom Drama Over Legal Representation
The battle for the Speakership has also spilled into the courtroom. On Friday, a legal confrontation unfolded at the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, where Obasa filed a suit challenging his removal. A clash erupted when two different lawyers claimed to represent the Assembly. While Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana appeared for the Assembly, another counsel, Abang Mkpandiok, claimed he had been newly briefed to take over the case. Justice Yetunde Pinheiro ruled that Mkpandiok’s application for a change of counsel was not yet valid as it had not been served to all parties.
Meanwhile, 33 lawmakers filed a motion to be joined in the case, reinforcing their opposition to Obasa’s reinstatement. The court adjourned the matter to March 7, 2025, for further proceedings.
Meranda Speaks, Lawmakers Stand Firm
Following the court hearing, Speaker Meranda disclosed that her full security detail had not been restored, contrasting with Obasa’s apparent state backing. When asked about Obasa’s presence at the Assembly, she dismissed it as an “invasion” and described his attempt to reclaim leadership as a “show of shame.”
Lagos Assembly spokesperson Ogundipe Olukayode affirmed that the 35 lawmakers remain united behind Meranda’s leadership. “The House will reconvene soon. We are consulting with our leaders, and we assure Lagosians that we remain committed to serving the state,” he stated.
A faction of the APC leadership also backs Meranda, with some lawmakers suggesting that Obasa’s defiance proves he can no longer be trusted. One anonymous legislator accused President Tinubu of tacitly supporting Obasa, deepening divisions within the party. “Obasa cannot be this confident without high-level backing. The GAC itself is now split between supporting Obasa and Meranda, but the majority stands with Meranda,” he said.
APC, GAC Call for Peace
Despite the turmoil, APC leaders are urging restraint. GAC Chairman Tajudeen Olusi confirmed that the council had advised both parties in private discussions. Meanwhile, Lagos APC Publicity Secretary Seye Oladejo described the crisis as a “family dispute” and called for peaceful resolution. “We are working towards an amicable settlement while respecting the independence of the legislature,” he said.
Oladejo also dismissed claims of presidential interference in the crisis, insisting that President Tinubu remains neutral.
What Next for Lagos Assembly?
As the leadership crisis lingers, all eyes remain on the Lagos Assembly. With legal battles underway, political maneuvering behind the scenes, and a deeply divided APC, the outcome of this standoff could reshape the state’s political landscape. Whether Obasa reclaims his seat or Meranda consolidates power, the coming weeks will be decisive in determining the future of Lagos’ legislative leadership.
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