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Lagos Assembly Upholds Legality of Obasa’s Removal, Confirms Release of Detained Lawmakers

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 31st, 2025.

Lagos Assembly Upholds Legality of Obasa’s Removal, Confirms Release of Detained Lawmakers

Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have reaffirmed that the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as speaker was fully legal and in line with constitutional provisions.

Obasa, who was impeached on January 13 while abroad, faced accusations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. Following his impeachment, his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was elected as the new speaker.

However, Obasa has contested the impeachment, claiming that his removal was illegal and that he remains the speaker until due process is followed.

In response, the lawmakers pointed to Sections 92 and 96 of the 1999 Constitution, which they say confirm the impeachment process was properly conducted.

In a statement issued after a visit to the Lagos office of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Shangisha on Thursday, the assembly members emphasized that their actions were taken in the best interest of Lagosians.

Their visit to the DSS came in light of the detention of two of their colleagues, Lanre Afinni and Sylvester Ogunkelu, who were summoned for questioning on matters related to the assembly.

“The Lagos State House of Assembly, as an independent arm of government, fulfilled its constitutional responsibility in the best interest of the people of Lagos,” the statement read. “Any attempt to challenge this legitimate action threatens the authority vested in us by the Nigerian Constitution.”

The lawmakers also expressed their appreciation to the DSS for its professionalism during the engagement and confirmed that all detained lawmakers had been released. They reiterated their dedication to their legislative duties and urged all stakeholders, including the executive and the public, to respect the integrity of the legislative process and avoid unnecessary interference.