We’ve Had Enough” – Lagos Lawmakers Reject Obasa, Affirm Meranda as Speaker

Tensions escalated at the Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday as a majority of lawmakers rejected Mudashiru Obasa’s attempt to reclaim the speakership, insisting that Mojisola Meranda remains the rightful leader of the assembly.

Obasa, who was removed from office on January 13, arrived at the assembly complex with security details in what appeared to be a bid to reclaim his former position. Reports earlier in the day suggested that Meranda’s security detail had been withdrawn, while Obasa’s had been restored, fueling speculation of a power shift.

Sources within the assembly confirmed that Obasa forced his way into the chamber and later presided over a plenary session with some members in attendance, declaring himself speaker once again. However, the move was met with strong opposition from the majority of lawmakers, who dismissed his claim.

Speaking to journalists at the assembly complex, about 36 lawmakers reaffirmed their support for Meranda, emphasizing that her position as speaker remains unchanged. The Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Security, and Strategy, Steven Ogundipe, criticized Obasa’s leadership style and insisted that his removal would stand.

“He was not elected as Speaker by his constituency. We endured his master-slave leadership for nearly a decade. Now, we’ve had enough, and we’re not backing down,” Ogundipe stated.

Despite Obasa’s actions, the lawmakers remain resolute in upholding Meranda’s leadership, setting the stage for a prolonged power struggle within the Lagos Assembly.