IMPEACHMENT: OBASA FLEES THE COUNTRY, AS ICPC, EFCC INITIATE ARREST, PROSECUTION
The recently impeached speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa has reportedly fled the country amid allegations of financial misconduct.
Obasa’s impeachment occurred during the House’s plenary session on Monday, January 13, 2025, following accusations of misappropriating public funds totalling ₦90 billion.
Prior to his removal, Obasa allegedly approached members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), the highest decision-making body of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC), in an attempt to halt the impeachment process. Sources indicate he offered monetary inducements, which were firmly rejected. With his options exhausted and facing imminent prosecution, Obasa is said to have fled Nigeria.
The former speaker has long been at odds with APC party leaders and members in Lagos State. His tenure was marred by allegations of abuse of office and public criticism of the state’s executive governor, His Excellency Mr. Babajide Olushola Sanwo-Olu, as well as previous Governors of Lagos State.
The sixth term lawmaker had also launched the Mudashiru Movement Caucus within the ruling APC, to promote his 2027 gubernatorial ambitions under the slogan: "Muda Eko, Obasa Lagos 2027 Agenda."; a move that has caused great disaffection within the party.
Following his impeachment, Hon. Meranda, representing Apapa State constituency 01, has been elected as the new speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Conference 57 Congratulates Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda
The Conference 57 of Local Government and Local Council Development Area Chairmen in Lagos State has congratulated Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda on her election as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
In a statement, the Conference 57 praised Meranda’s dedication, competence, and commitment to service, saying her emergence reflects the state’s progressive ideals and inclusive governance ethos.
The forum expressed trust in Meranda’s ability to deliver robust legislative leadership, foster development, and uphold democratic principles. They assured her of their support and collaboration, wishing her a successful tenure marked by groundbreaking achievements.
Signed on behalf of the Conference 57 by Chairman Hon. Alabi Kolade David and Public Relations Officer Bldr. Olusesan Daini, the statement concluded with a congratulatory message to Madam Speaker
The Mudashiru Obasa's Impeachment
The Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday impeached its Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, citing allegations of multiple statutory and financial infractions.
The decision to remove Mr. Obasa from office followed extensive deliberations among the lawmakers, culminating in a vote that sealed his fate. The specifics of the allegations have not yet been fully disclosed, but sources within the Assembly suggest that they pertain to financial mismanagement and breach of statutory responsibilities.
Following the impeachment, the Assembly swiftly moved to elect Mrs. Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker. Mrs. Meranda, who represents Apapa Constituency 1, is a seasoned legislator and previously served as the chief whip of the House. Her appointment marks a historic moment, as she becomes one of the few women to hold such a prestigious position in the state legislature.
Speaking after her swearing-in, Mrs. Meranda pledged to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability while fostering unity among members of the Assembly. “This House remains committed to serving the people of Lagos State and ensuring that governance aligns with their expectations,” she stated.
The impeachment of Mr. Obasa has generated mixed reactions across the state, with majority of Lagosians, party leaders and members applauding the Assembly’s decision as a step towards accountability, and cohesion. .
As Lagosians await more details on the allegations and subsequent investigations, the Assembly’s leadership transition is expected to set the tone for legislative activities in the coming months
