The power tussle in the Lagos State House of Assembly took a twist as impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa stormed the Assembly complex and declared his return to power.
Obasa was flanked by police officers and State Security Service (SSS) operatives when he walked into the Speaker’s office at exactly noon, the first time he came back since his controversial removal on January 13.
While talking to reporters a firm and defiant tone, Obasa said: “I’ve resumed, and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly.”
This unexpected comeback followed the impromptu withdrawal of the security aides attached to the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, triggering fresh tension in the already divided House.
For weeks, Lagos State House of Assembly has been embroiled in a fierce leadership crisis. The removal of Obasa, backed by over 90% of lawmakers, was induced by accusations of poor leadership, habitual lateness to legislative duties, high-handedness, and alleged intimidation of colleagues. Also, Lawmakers claimed he frequently clashed with the executive arm, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
After his removal, Mojisola Meranda was elected Speaker, but Obasa’s move has rekindled uncertainty about the House’s leadership.
High-profile intervention efforts have been ongoing behind the scene At President Bola Tinubu’s directive, respected All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders like former governors Bisi Akande (Osun), Segun Osoba (Ogun), and Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos) held series of meetings with the hope to broker peace among political stakeholders and lawmakers.
