The political landscape of Lagos State has been shaken by a legal dispute over the speakership of the State House of Assembly.
On January 13, 2025, 36 lawmakers voted to remove Speaker Mudashiru Obasa from office while he was reportedly out of the country.
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Obasa has since contested his removal, leading to a court case that has drawn significant public attention.
On February 28, 2025, 29 lawmakers supporting Obasa’s removal appeared at the Lagos State High Court for the hearing of the case he filed challenging his ouster.
Obasa’s legal team, led by Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), argues that due process was not followed in his removal and seeks to have the court nullify the decision.
The defense team, representing the current Speaker Mojisola Meranda and the House, comprises several senior advocates, including Tayo Oyetibo (SAN) and Femi Falana (SAN).
The controversy escalated when Obasa and a few loyalists attempted to reconvene a plenary session on February 27, 2025.
The Lagos State House of Assembly condemned this move, labeling it unconstitutional and asserting that Obasa no longer holds authority over the Assembly.
House spokesman Hon. Steve Ogundipe highlighted that the attempt lacked key procedural requirements, such as formal notice to members, a quorum, an approved agenda, and the official mace symbolizing legislative authority.
The Assembly reaffirmed its support for Speaker Mojisola Meranda, dismissing rumors of her resignation as unfounded.
The lawmakers emphasized their alignment with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in resolving the crisis and pledged to uphold the integrity of the legislature in the best interest of Lagosians.
As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome of this case will have significant implications for the political stability and governance of Lagos State.
The judiciary’s role in adjudicating this dispute underscores the importance of legal frameworks in resolving political conflicts and maintaining democratic processes.