The Lagos State House of Assembly made history on Monday by impeaching Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, bringing an end to his 10-year tenure. The decision was made after Femi Saheed, representing Kosofe Constituency 2, raised a motion for Obasa’s removal, citing allegations of gross misconduct, financial mismanagement, and poor leadership.
Obasa’s impeachment was unanimous, with 32 members voting in favor of his removal. The Speaker was absent during the proceedings, reportedly in the United States, which lawmakers saw as further evidence of his disregard for the Assembly’s duties.
The allegations against Obasa were numerous, including high-handedness, gross misconduct, poor leadership, financial impropriety, and authoritarianism. His leadership style had drawn criticism for being undemocratic, and he was accused of banning journalists from covering Assembly activities for over two years.
Following Obasa’s impeachment, Mojisola Meranda, representing Apapa Constituency 1, was elected as the new Speaker, making her the first female to hold the position in Lagos State. Fatai Mojeed, representing Ibeju-Lekki, was chosen as Deputy Speaker.
The Assembly also suspended Clerk Olalekan Onafeko, a close ally of Obasa, replacing him with Abubakar Ottun as Acting Clerk. Armed security personnel were deployed to secure the Assembly complex during the impeachment process, and several individuals believed to be Obasa’s supporters were arrested.
Abiodun Tobun, representing Epe Constituency 1, stated that the impeachment was necessary to restore order and preserve the Assembly’s integrity. He assured Lagosians of the lawmakers’ commitment to transparency and effective governance under Meranda’s leadership.
Meranda has received widespread support, including endorsements from the Conference 57 Local Government Chairmen, who praised her competence and pledged their cooperation to ensure a successful tenure focused on progress and development in Lagos State.