The Lagos State House of Assembly has ousted its Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, in a move that has shocked many within the state’s political circle. Obasa, a long-standing Speaker since 2015, was removed from his post amid allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and involvement in multibillion-naira fraud.
The decision was made during a plenary session on Monday, leading to the immediate appointment of Mojisola Meranda, the former Deputy Speaker, as the new Speaker. This marks a historic moment as Meranda becomes the first female to hold this position in Lagos State. The impeachment has stirred significant discourse regarding governance, accountability, and political maneuvering in the state.
Obasa’s removal was influenced by claims of financial misconduct, particularly the expenditure of N43.5 billion on backup vehicles for lawmakers, which was seen as excessive and sparked public and legislative scrutiny. Additionally, accusations of an authoritarian leadership style and the suppression of fellow assembly members were cited, suggesting his tenure had fostered division within the legislative body.
The political dimension of Obasa’s impeachment cannot be overlooked. His public interest in running for the Lagos State Governorship in 2027 might have played a role in his ousting, as some speculate this move was designed to curb his political ambitions amidst a complex web of political interests in Lagos, one of Nigeria’s most influential states.
Reactions on social media platforms like X have been mixed. Some see the impeachment as a move towards greater accountability, while others view it as a strategic political play to sideline Obasa. The public and political analysts are keenly observing how this shift in leadership will influence the state’s legislative agenda, especially with local government elections on the horizon in July.
Mojisola Meranda has vowed to mend the assembly’s image and concentrate on legislative efforts that benefit Lagosians. Meanwhile, the specifics of Obasa’s alleged financial dealings and the full scope of his misconduct are yet to be fully investigated, with calls for transparency and accountability growing louder.
Obasa was reportedly abroad when the impeachment took place, and he has not yet commented publicly on his removal. In response to the shakeup, the Lagos State House of Assembly has dissolved all principal positions and standing committees in what appears to be an attempt at a fresh start. This change could reshape the political landscape in Lagos, potentially affecting both local and national politics given the state’s pivotal role.
As Lagos moves forward under new leadership, all eyes will be on how these developments impact governance, policy decisions, and the upcoming electoral contests, with the public eager to see the direction in which the state’s political narrative will now head.
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