In a dramatic turn of events, Mudashiru Obasa, the former speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has firmly rejected claims of his impeachment, declaring that “there is no impeachment.” This statement, made in the wake of a contentious vote that saw the assembly select Mojisola Meranda as the new speaker, raises questions about both the procedural integrity of the impeachment process and the broader political landscape in Lagos.
Obasa, who was absent from the assembly during the January 13 vote, contends that the legislative process was not properly followed, invalidating any claims of his removal. The speaker, a prominent figure in the state’s politics for over two decades, expressed his belief that such decisions must adhere to strict constitutional procedures, which, in his view, were not respected by the assembly members. “You can only remove the speaker, and that must be done according to the rules,” he asserted, emphasising the lack of due process in his ousting.
The political drama unfolded swiftly when the assembly members, citing allegations of misconduct and mismanagement of funds, voted to remove Obasa from office. However, his critics have faced mounting challenges in their efforts to convince the public and the legal community of the legitimacy of the vote. Obasa’s response has been swift and assertive, dismissing any suggestions that he had misappropriated state resources as “impossible.” His unwavering stance on the matter has only intensified the political standoff.
The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions within the Lagos State House of Assembly and raises broader concerns about governance in Africa’s economic powerhouse. While Obasa has remained resolute in his denial of the impeachment, the case exposes deeper issues surrounding political accountability, power struggles, and the internal dynamics of the assembly. The question now is whether this dispute will result in legal challenges or further political fallout, particularly as both factions lay claim to legitimacy.
Obasa’s rejection of the impeachment process is also a testament to his political resilience. Having served as speaker since 2015, he has cultivated a network of supporters and allies, particularly within the Lagos State Government. His defiance of the assembly’s decision may not only fuel further tensions but also set the stage for a protracted legal and political battle. The speaker’s assertion that he has no intention of stepping down reinforces the notion that this conflict is far from over.
Moreover, Obasa’s argument that he has served both as a member and as speaker since 2003, coupled with his belief in the assembly’s procedural integrity, provides a critical insight into the inner workings of Nigerian politics. He has, for years, been a key figure in the state’s governance, navigating complex political networks to maintain his position at the helm of the assembly. His defiant response to the impeachment vote signals a determination to hold onto power, despite the pressure from his opponents.
As Lagos, the commercial hub of Nigeria, faces a period of political uncertainty, the outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for the state’s governance. The ongoing saga surrounding Obasa’s position will likely intensify scrutiny of the legislative body, with observers keenly watching for any signs of a shift in power dynamics or further developments within the assembly.
In the coming weeks, the focus will shift to the legal and political ramifications of the dispute, as well as the broader implications for governance in Lagos State. For now, Mudashiru Obasa’s declaration that there is no impeachment serves as a reminder of the complex nature of Nigerian politics, where battles over power and legitimacy are often fought in the courts as much as in the chambers of government.
