Tensions escalated at the Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday as impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa made a dramatic return to the assembly complex, accompanied by heavily armed security operatives. Obasa, who was removed from office on January 13, 2025, arrived with a contingent of over 11 police officers and proceeded directly to the Speaker’s office, bypassing colleagues gathered in the assembly’s garden.
Eyewitnesses reported that Obasa’s entourage included both uniformed security personnel and individuals suspected to be thugs. A source within the assembly complex expressed concerns over the legality of Obasa’s actions, suggesting he aimed to reinstate himself without due process.
This development follows reports that security details assigned to the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, were withdrawn earlier in the day, while Obasa’s security aides were reinstated. The circumstances surrounding these security changes remain unclear, but they have intensified the ongoing leadership crisis within the assembly.
Obasa’s return marks his first public appearance at the assembly since his impeachment, which was executed by an overwhelming majority of Lagos lawmakers. Upon his arrival, he declared, “I’ve resumed and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly.”
The situation has created a charged atmosphere within the assembly complex, with members and staff expressing uncertainty about the potential for conflict. As of now, official statements from the Lagos State government or law enforcement agencies regarding the incident have not been released.
Observers are closely monitoring the unfolding events, as the power struggle within the Lagos State House of Assembly raises significant concerns about the stability of the state’s legislative processes.
