Lagos Speaker Mudashiru Obasa Impeached Over Alleged Misconduct
Lagos, Nigeria – January 13, 2025 – The Lagos State House of Assembly has impeached its Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, following allegations of gross misconduct and financial mismanagement. The impeachment, which was backed by 32 out of 40 lawmakers, marks the end of Obasa’s long tenure as Speaker since 2015.
The decision to remove Obasa was reached during a plenary session on Monday after weeks of intense political maneuvering within the House. Lawmakers accused the now-former Speaker of various financial improprieties, including the alleged misuse of public funds for personal gain.
One of the most controversial accusations involved the approval of a staggering ₦17 billion for a gate project at the Lagos State House of Assembly complex. Lawmakers argued that the expenditure was excessive and suspicious, raising concerns about financial accountability and transparency in the assembly’s leadership.
Obasa was also accused of mismanaging constituency funds and projects, a claim that further weakened his standing among his colleagues. The motion for his impeachment was moved by a senior lawmaker and quickly gained majority support.
Following Obasa’s removal, Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda was elected as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Her emergence as the new leader signals a possible shift in the assembly’s direction, with many lawmakers and political analysts expecting reforms aimed at restoring public trust.
The impeachment of Obasa is expected to have major political implications in Lagos State. As a close ally of top political figures within the ruling party, his removal could reshape the political dynamics within the state.
Obasa’s Troubled Political Career
This is not the first time Obasa has faced corruption allegations. In 2020, he was investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations of embezzlement and misappropriation of public funds. At the time, he denied any wrongdoing, but the latest impeachment suggests that his political career may now be in jeopardy.
Public Reactions and Future Developments
The impeachment has sparked widespread reactions from political analysts, civil society organizations, and Lagos residents. Many see it as a bold step towards accountability, while others speculate that it could be part of a larger political power struggle.
As Speaker Meranda assumes leadership, all eyes are on the Lagos State House of Assembly to see how it handles governance moving forward. The big question remains: Will this impeachment lead to real reforms, or is it just another political game?
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.