The leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly deepens as 35 pro-Mojisola Meranda lawmakers head to court to challenge Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s return. The lawmakers seek legal validation of Obasa’s removal after he reclaimed the seat with police escorts, sparking fresh political tension in the state legislature.
The power struggle within the Lagos State House of Assembly has escalated as pro-Mojisola Meranda lawmakers take legal steps to solidify the removal of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. On Friday, at least 35 legislators arrived at the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja to challenge Obasa’s claim to the speakership.
Obasa was controversially ousted on January 13, 2025, when the majority of lawmakers voted to install Meranda as the first female speaker of the House. However, he has since contested the legitimacy of his removal, arguing that due process was not followed. The crisis took a new turn on Thursday when Obasa, backed by security escorts, returned to the Assembly, while Meranda’s security aides were withdrawn.
In a dramatic twist, Obasa announced that Meranda had stepped down, a claim her supporters swiftly dismissed. Hours later, pro-Meranda lawmakers headed to court to seek judicial backing for Obasa’s removal. The outcome of the legal proceedings is expected to have a significant impact on the leadership of the Lagos Assembly and the political landscape of the state.
Tensions remain high as both factions brace for a protracted legal and political battle. Analysts warn that the dispute could stall legislative activities, while observers speculate on possible interventions from higher political authorities.
Photographs from the courtroom show the lawmakers standing firm in their bid to solidify Meranda’s leadership, signaling their determination to resist what they describe as an attempt to undermine democracy in the Lagos Assembly.
