Obasa stranded in U.S.A as Lagos lawmakers impeach ex-Speaker without drama

In a seamless and decisive move, 32 members of the Lagos State House of Assembly impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa yesterday while he was still in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The action, free of infighting, marked the end of Obasa’s eight-year tenure as Speaker. The lawmakers cited allegations of corruption, gross misconduct, and authoritarian leadership as reasons for his removal. They declared they were ready for a change, with one legislator stating, “We’ve had enough.” Following the impeachment, Obasa’s deputy, Hon. Mojisola Meranda, was promptly sworn in as the new Speaker, making history as the first female to hold the position in Lagos State. Hon. Fatai Mojeed, formerly the Deputy Chief Whip, was elected Deputy Speaker. All standing committees were dissolved, and the Clerk of the Assembly, Olalekan Onafeko, was suspended. Abubakar Ottun was appointed as Acting Clerk. Obasa’s removal came amid long-standing tensions with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, which escalated during the 2025 budget presentation. The impeached Speaker had also stirred controversy by hinting at his gubernatorial ambitions, further alienating key political allies. Hon. Femi Saheed moved the motion for impeachment under “Matter of Urgent Public Importance,” accusing Obasa of misappropriating funds, high-handedness, and perpetuating division among lawmakers. Saheed described Obasa’s leadership style as “authoritarian and undemocratic,” adding that he was often late to sessions and failed to respect legislative protocols. The impeachment motion, grounded in Section 92(2)(C) of the Nigerian Constitution, was adopted unanimously through a voice vote. In her acceptance speech, Hon. Meranda vowed to lead with integrity and ensure that the Assembly operates in the best interest of Lagos residents.