Mudashiru Obasa Re-Elected As Lagos Speaker After Mojisola Meranda’s Resignation

Lagos State House of Assembly has reinstated Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, bringing an end to weeks of leadership turmoil.

Obasa, who represents Agege Constituency I, was re-elected on Monday following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who had taken over as Speaker after his removal.

His return to office came after Noheem Adams, a former Majority Leader representing Eti-Osa Constituency I, nominated him.

After being sworn in, Mudashiru Obasa resumed his role as Speaker, seven weeks after losing the position.

Before stepping down, Mojisola Meranda stated that her resignation was aimed at protecting the integrity of the Lagos State House of Assembly, emphasizing that she was not giving up out of weakness.

“I take a bow as your Speaker,” she declared as her colleagues took turns praising her leadership skills, dedication, and contributions during her brief tenure.

Desmond Olusola Elliot commended her efforts, acknowledging that she had provided strong leadership and managed the House effectively.

Another lawmaker, Temitope Adewale Ifako-Ijaiye I, described Meranda as a “heroine of democracy,” applauding her service and resilience.

“We celebrate you for your quality service. You are a heroine of democracy. You came, you saw, you conquer. You are a victim of circumstance. This house is in tears,” he said.

Obasa has been a member of the Assembly since 2007 and was first elected Speaker in June 2015.

However, in January 2025, he was removed from office by more than two-thirds of the 40-member House, who accused him of misconduct.

His then-deputy, Meranda, was immediately elected as the new Speaker, making history as the first female Speaker in Lagos State.

Following his removal, Obasa rejected the decision, arguing that due process had not been followed.

He also criticized the heavy security presence at the Assembly during the impeachment process and claimed that his removal took place while he was out of the country.

Despite his objections, 36 lawmakers remained loyal to Meranda, insisting that Obasa’s removal was final.

On February 17, tensions escalated at the Assembly Complex when security personnel and legislative staff clashed over the presence of armed officers in the chamber. That same day, Meranda’s supporters reaffirmed their confidence in her leadership and suspended further sittings.

However, on February 27, Obasa made a dramatic return to the Assembly Complex, escorted by armed security operatives. His reappearance marked his first visit to the chamber since his removal.

While his colleagues protested his presence and reaffirmed their support for Meranda, Obasa maintained that he was still the rightful Speaker.

KanyiDaily recalls that Mudashiru Obasa had insisted that he was never officially removed, stressing that impeachment is a democratic process but emphasized that due process must be followed.