In a stunning turn of events, Lagos Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was removed from office after he was impeached for alleged gross misconduct and abuse of office by fellow lawmakers.
The move comes amid reports of a power struggle with Governor Sanwo-Olu. Lawmakers wasted no time in appointing Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda as Mr Obasa’s replacement.
Although Houses of Assembly are officially independent of the executive, in many states, the assemblies are controlled by state governors.
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Mr Obasa has represented Agege Constituency 1 in the Assembly since 2007 and has been the speaker since 2015.
Reasons
After the impeachment, Abiodun Tobun, joined by other legislators, spoke to the media. He explained that the impeachment was essential to maintain the ethical standards of the legislative house.
The lawmaker, representing Epe Constituency 1, said they decided to unanimously “change the leadership of the house” in line with the constitution because they “felt they have had enough” of Mr Obasa as speaker.
He said the development was a resolution agreed to by “all members of the parliament.” Mr Tobun further said all principal positions and standing committees have been dissolved.
Mr Obasa was not present when the lawmakers sat on Monday as he is believed to be out of the country.
More reasons
Monday’s plenary sitting, where Mr Obasa was removed, was presided over by Mrs Meranda, according to a video of the proceeding seen by PREMIUM TIMES.
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