Mudashiru Obasa, the former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has reclaimed his position, insisting that his impeachment on January 13 was not conducted properly and, therefore, remains invalid.
Addressing reporters upon his return to the assembly complex on Thursday, Obasa emphasized that he harbors no resentment towards the lawmakers who voted for his removal, describing them as his “brothers and sisters.”
“My colleagues have always been my brothers. They are dedicated and committed to serving the people of Lagos, and we will continue to work together,” he stated.
“I have no reservations, no grudges, and no plans for retribution.”
Obasa was removed from office in a vote where 32 out of 38 lawmakers supported his impeachment, paving the way for Mojisola Meranda to become the first female Speaker of the House. At the time, he was in the United States when news of his impeachment surfaced.
Reports had suggested that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) was prepared to arrest him upon his return to Nigeria over corruption allegations.
However, sources indicate that First Lady Remi Tinubu intervened, urging the agency to back down due to Obasa’s political influence in Agege and surrounding areas, which could be significant for President Bola Tinubu’s future political ambitions.
To address the political crisis, former APC National Chairman Bisi Akande and ex-Ogun State Governor Gbenga Osoba were reportedly asked to mediate.
While no official statement has been released regarding their intervention, Obasa’s return to the assembly, along with the restoration of his security detail, suggests that he has regained political backing.
Meanwhile, the security detail assigned to Meranda has been withdrawn, further fueling speculation that Obasa has reclaimed the speakership.
Prompt news