LSHA Crisis: Ex-Speaker Obasa’s Removal Was Legal, Lagos Lawmakers Insist

Lagos lawmakers affirm the legality of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa’s removal amid the ongoing LSHA crisis. 

Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LSHA) have intensified their efforts to remove Mudashiru Obasa as the Speaker, stating that this action is legally binding.

Obasa was dismissed a few weeks ago due to allegations of corruption and other offenses.

Although the former speaker insisted he remained in control, even after someone else was elected to the position, the Lagos State Assembly affirmed on Thursday that Obasa’s removal is still valid.

According to a statement by Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, representing the Lagos State Assembly, “The Lagos State House of Assembly has fulfilled its constitutional responsibility as an independent branch of government with the best interests of the people of Lagos in mind.” This announcement came after lawmakers responded to an invitation from the Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos.

“The decision to remove the former Speaker was reached through a democratic process, with the necessary majority as outlined by law. Any efforts to contest this legitimate action undermine the authority granted by the Nigerian Constitution.”

They stated that Obasa’s removal was consistent with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Powers and Privileges Act. These empower the State Assembly to manage its internal affairs without external interference.

“The lawmakers explained that Sections 92 and 96 detail the procedures for electing and removing the Speaker, and their decision adhered to these guidelines. They also noted that it is widely known that legislative autonomy has been granted to State Assemblies, allowing elected representatives to operate independently within their designated chambers.”

Several members of the Lagos Assembly were detained by the DSS and questioned regarding matters concerning the legislative body. In response, additional Assembly members visited on Thursday.

However, after their visit, the lawmakers reported that their colleagues who were summoned for questioning had been released.

“The lawmaker announced that all previously detained Assembly members have been released and praised the professionalism of the DSS.”

“The statement expressed gratitude to the Lagos DSS Command, particularly acknowledging the Director for facilitating a smooth and respectful interaction.”

After Obasa’s removal, Mojisola Meranda was elected as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Since it was established in 1979, the Lagos State House of Assembly has convened nine distinct assemblies.

The latest inauguration occurred in 2019. However, before Meranda’s election, no woman had been elected as the speaker.

Mojeed Fatai was also chosen as the deputy in the Lagos State House of Assembly.