The leadership crisis within the Lagos State House of Assembly has taken a new turn as efforts to reinstate Mr. Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker gain momentum.
The Assembly has been embroiled in a power struggle since January 13, 2025, when 32 lawmakers ousted Obasa and former Clerk of the House, Olalekan Onafeko, electing Mrs. Mojisola Meranda as the new Speaker.
Sources close to the Presidency and key political figures revealed that lawmakers are being urged to reconsider their stance and support Obasa’s return. It was also gathered that the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) has been asked to intervene and persuade anti-Obasa legislators.
This development follows the disbandment of the Bisi Akande-led committee, which had been tasked with resolving the crisis. The committee was reportedly dissolved after its findings indicated strong opposition to Obasa’s reinstatement.
Court May Decide Leadership Tussle
With both factions unwilling to back down, sources indicate that if political efforts fail, the judiciary may ultimately determine the rightful Speaker. Obasa has already taken legal action against Meranda and the Assembly, challenging his removal.
Justice Yetunde Rukayat Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, has scheduled a hearing on the case for March 7, 2025. If unresolved, the case could escalate to the Appeal Court and eventually the Supreme Court.
Assembly Staff Ordered to Work from Home
To prevent further tension, Assembly management has directed staff and legislative aides to work remotely until further notice. Acting Clerk, Mr. Babatunde Abubakar, in a memo, stated that the decision was made for safety reasons amid the ongoing crisis.
This comes after security operatives, including the Department of State Services (DSS), stormed the Assembly complex, sealing offices and preventing plenary sessions.
GAC Distances Itself from Obasa’s Removal
Meanwhile, GAC Chairman, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, clarified that the council was not involved in Obasa’s removal. He stated that the lawmakers acted independently without consulting the party leadership, emphasizing that leadership changes within the Assembly should be a party decision.
As the political battle unfolds, all eyes remain on the judiciary and the ruling party’s next moves in determining the fate of the Lagos State Assembly leadership.
