Leadership tensions within the Lagos State House of Assembly escalated on Monday when reinstated Speaker Mudashiru Obasa made a unilateral decision to change the Assembly’s legal representation in ongoing court proceedings. This move has provoked strong reactions from the 35 lawmakers who previously voted for his impeachment.
At the Ikeja High Court, Justice Yetunde Pinheiro adjourned the case to March 17, following new applications submitted by the parties involved. Obasa’s lawsuit seeks to challenge his removal from office on January 13, 2025, which was based on serious allegations including fraud, authoritarianism, abuse of power, and gross misconduct.
Outside the courtroom, Obasa’s lead attorney, Afolabi Fasanu (SAN), clarified that their recent filings were prompted by claims made during a previous hearing regarding Obasa’s whereabouts at the time of his impeachment. “We have provided evidence,” Fasanu asserted.
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The situation intensified when Obasa replaced the Assembly’s legal team without consulting the majority of lawmakers, leading to accusations of illegality. Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana, representing the dissenting lawmakers, condemned Obasa’s actions, stating, “It is not lawful for a plaintiff to impose a lawyer on the defendants. The 35 lawmakers have chosen our team, and we are following their directives.”
This legal dispute is part of a broader power struggle within the Lagos Assembly. Following Obasa’s ousting in January, he was replaced by then-Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, who resigned on March 3, paving the way for Obasa’s contentious reinstatement. The upcoming court hearing on March 17 will further examine the legality of both his impeachment and subsequent return to power.
The ongoing turmoil reflects deep divisions within the Assembly as factions vie for control and influence. As this political drama unfolds, all eyes will be on how these tensions impact governance in Lagos State and whether a resolution can be achieved in this turbulent environment.
