Lagos, Nigeria — Chief Mudashiru Obasa, the immediate past Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has insisted that his removal as Speaker did not follow constitutional procedures.
Addressing supporters and politicians on Saturday at the official Lagos Speaker’s residence in GRA, Ikeja, Chief Obasa refuted the allegations of misconduct and mismanagement of funds that led to his removal by 35 out of the 40 lawmakers on January 13, 2025. He was replaced by his former deputy, Mrs. Mojisola Meranda.
Chief Obasa emphasized that the allegations lacked merit and described himself as the Assembly’s most experienced lawmaker, having served six terms since 2003.
“I appreciate your support and loyalty. I want to categorically debunk the baseless accusations against me,” he said.
Criticizing the claims, Obasa questioned the plausibility of some allegations. He stated, “Is it reasonable to claim we spent N16 billion on constructing a gate? This is not the Wall of Jericho or the U.S.-Mexico border. Also, the assertion that we purchased a Hilux bus for N1 billion each, totaling N40 billion for 40 buses, is unfounded.”
He also dismissed accusations regarding extravagant Thanksgiving spending, asking critics to compare it with similar state-funded events.
The former Speaker declared he was unbothered by the removal, saying, “I have done nothing wrong. I am not afraid because I believe in my integrity and over 20 years of legislative service.”
Chief Obasa lamented the breach of due process, alleging that the Lagos State Commissioner of Police led over 200 officers to invade the Assembly during his removal. He also recounted how his private residence in Agege was besieged, preventing his family from leaving the premises.
“I am not afraid of removal; it’s not a family inheritance. I represent my people, who have re-elected me six times. However, if removal must happen, it should follow due process,” he stated.
Obasa further referenced past instances of leadership changes in the Assembly, claiming that no such police interference occurred during the removal of Rt. Hon. Jokotola Pelumi or Hon. Adefunmilayo Tejuosho.
He called on the Assembly to substantiate their claims, emphasizing the need to uphold the institution’s integrity. “The Lagos State House of Assembly stands as a beacon of excellence. We must protect its image and credibility,” he added.
In his address, Obasa expressed gratitude to members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other prominent figures, including Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He recalled his long-standing relationship with President Tinubu, dating back to their days in the Social Democratic Party (SDP). “In 2015, I never thought I’d become Speaker, but President Tinubu believed in me and supported me against all odds,” he said.
The statement ended with Chief Obasa reaffirming his commitment to the values of the Assembly and the people of Lagos State.
By Enoch Odesola| January 20, 2025
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