The Lagos State House of Assembly has shed light on the reasons behind the impeachment of its former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, on Monday, citing perpetual lateness, highhandedness, and incitement of members against one another as key factors.
Obasa, who represented Agege, was replaced by his deputy, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, representing Apapa I, making her the first female Speaker in the Assembly’s history.
The lawmakers also removed the Clerk, Olalekan Onafeko, who was said to have been handpicked by Obasa.
Allegations Of Misconduct
In a motion moved by Femi Saheed under Matters of Urgent Public Importance, Obasa was accused of gross misconduct and authoritarian leadership. The motion, which cited Section 92(2)(C) of the Nigerian Constitution, alleged that the former Speaker:
– Perpetually arrived late to legislative sessions and meetings;
– Displayed highhandedness and a lack of regard for members;
– Abused office and privileges;
– Intimidated and oppressed members, inciting divisions among them;
– Demonstrated undemocratic and authoritarian tendencies.
Saheed described the impeachment as necessary to restore order and democracy within the Assembly.
The motion was adopted by 32 members of the House through a voice vote, sealing Obasa’s fate after a decade-long tenure as Speaker.
In the aftermath:
– Mojisola Meranda was elected as the new Speaker;
– Fatai Mojeed emerged as the new Deputy Speaker;
– Abubakar Ottun was named Acting Clerk following the suspension of Olalekan Onafeko.
Security Tightened Around Assembly Complex
Following the impeachment, the Assembly premises were heavily secured by armed personnel from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Lagos Task Force, and state police command.
Motorists and visitors were turned away, and some miscreants attempting to invade the complex were arrested. Charms and amulets allegedly belonging to supporters of Obasa from Agege Constituency were reportedly recovered.
Lawmakers Speak Out
Speaking on behalf of the Assembly, Abiodun Tobun, representing Epe Constituency 1, explained that the leadership change was a collective decision aimed at ensuring a more inclusive and democratic legislative process.
According to him, “The Lagos State House of Assembly has declared its decision to impeach Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. The impeachment was a unanimous decision by the lawmakers.
“The lawmakers agreed to take this step to safeguard our image and Lagos State. Change is inevitable, and we felt it was time for a new direction.
“All standing committees and principal officer positions have been dissolved. We are determined to work together to elevate the Assembly and deliver on our responsibilities to Lagosians.”
He explained that the Constitution empowers the Assembly to regulate its proceedings, and members reached a consensus to end Obasa’s tenure.
The lawmakers assured the public of their commitment to the progress and stability of Lagos State under the new leadership.
Obasa’s Sins
Obasa had been accused of financial mismanagement involving ₦44 billion allocated for vehicles and capital projects over two years.
This development has generated concerns and raised questions about transparency and accountability in the Assembly’s financial operations from critics, including lawmakers and residents.
Alleged Vehicle Allocations
A significant portion of the controversy had stemmed from the Assembly’s vehicle budget.
According to available official records on the Lagos House of Assembly Budget Performance, in 2023, ₦30.19 billion was allocated for vehicles, including official cars, utility buses, and backup vehicles. Another ₦13.33 billion was earmarked for vehicles in 2024.
However, investigations revealed that no vehicles were purchased in 2023, and only a small fraction of the 2024 allocation has been accounted for.
This lack of tangible outcomes has sparked public outrage. Residents are asking why such a massive budget for vehicles has yielded no visible results. Many are now questioning if the funds were diverted for other purposes under Speaker Obasa’s administration.
Questionable Capital Projects
Also, critics have raised questions over the financial irregularities by Obasa’s administration of allocating funds for dubious projects.
₦1.1 billion for properties in 2023: Critics argued this expenditure was excessive, particularly when essential sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure are underfunded.
₦126 million in 2024 for properties in Abuja: This allocation has raised eyebrows, with residents questioning why the state’s funds are being spent outside its jurisdiction.
₦15.65 billion for office construction in 2023 and 2024: The necessity of this project is unclear, as many Assembly offices were reportedly functional before the upgrade.
According to critics, these expenditures suggest a troubling pattern of fiscal mismanagement and misplaced priorities, fueling public anger.
Increasing Frosty Relationship Within The Assembly
Obasa’s leadership is reportedly facing growing resistance from within the Assembly. New lawmakers who joined in 2023, along with some older members, are now challenging his financial decisions and demanding greater transparency, accountability.
According to Vanguard, sources revealed that Obasa’s alleged divide-and-rule tactics are beginning to backfire, as his critics gain momentum.
Public Outcry Over Misplaced Priorities
The allegations against Speaker Obasa have also increased public frustration, distrust over the state’s governance. “Lagosians are demanding answers to critical questions: Why was ₦30.19 billion allocated for vehicles in 2023 when no cars were purchased?
“Why is ₦126 million being spent on properties in Abuja while Lagos faces pressing infrastructural needs? What is the justification for spending billions on office construction when existing facilities are reportedly functional?,” the civil society groups queried.
The groups and concerned citizens argued that the misuse of public funds under Obasa’s watch represents a betrayal of trust, particularly as residents grapple with economic hardships.
Assembly Budget Performance, Calls For Accountability
Amid the mounting allegations, concerned residents and advocacy groups have been calling on Obasa to provide a detailed breakdown of the Assembly’s expenditures over the past two years.
