Lagos, Nigeria — Security has been heightened at the Lagos State House of Assembly Complex as lawmakers convene for a plenary session on Monday, January 27, 2025. The move comes amidst growing speculation about a potential confrontation, following former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s declaration that he remains the Speaker of the House.
Obasa was removed from office on January 13, 2025, by a majority of House members, who cited allegations of misconduct and financial misappropriation. His removal led to the appointment of Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda as his successor. Today’s session marks the third consecutive meeting presided over by Meranda since Obasa’s ousting, with the former Speaker absent from the previous two sittings.
Speaking on Saturday, Obasa, who had been outside Lagos since the political turmoil, insisted that he still holds the position of Speaker, emphasizing that any removal should follow the “proper process.” He denied the allegations of financial mismanagement, calling the claims “impossible” and suggesting that the reports of corruption were fabricated.
Obasa’s public statements were made in front of a large crowd of supporters at the Speaker’s Lodge in Ikeja, where he reaffirmed his position and challenged the legitimacy of the impeachment process. “I am still the Speaker until the right procedure is followed,” he said. He further disputed allegations about inflated costs of legislative purchases, such as a N16 billion gate construction and N1 billion Hilux vehicles, calling them baseless.
In response to these developments, the acting Clerk of the House issued a notice on Sunday, instructing all staff and legislative aides to present valid identification cards upon entering the assembly complex. The notice, which emphasized the importance of security, stated that anyone without proper identification would be denied access.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command has pledged to maintain peace during the session, ensuring that no disruptions occur outside the assembly. Commissioner of Police Ishola Olawale reiterated that the police would not intervene within the assembly but would ensure law and order outside its premises. He warned against any attempts to cause unrest, promising swift action against anyone engaging in unlawful behavior.
Obasa had previously accused the police of invading his residences following his removal, claiming that over 200 officers blocked his family’s movements. However, the police have denied these allegations, with the Commissioner questioning the credibility of the claim, given the controlled nature of the estate where Obasa resides.
Looking ahead, Obasa is scheduled to meet with the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) and President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. This meeting is expected to address the ongoing political crisis within the Lagos State legislature.
The unfolding events have sparked significant public interest, with both political observers and citizens awaiting the outcome of today’s session.
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