Obasa Defends Lagos Assembly Plenary Amidst Controversy

Lagos Speaker Mudashiru Obasa Reacts to Controversial Plenary Attendance

The embattled Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has defended his decision to preside over a plenary session attended by only four lawmakers, asserting that attendance is voluntary and cannot be enforced.

Addressing the legitimacy concerns during an interview on TVC, Obasa stated, “I cannot compel legislators to be present at plenary. If four members attended, what matters is that the session was held.”

The Lagos State House of Assembly, which consists of 40 members, witnessed a significant absence during Thursday’s plenary session, even though most lawmakers were reportedly present at the Assembly complex but did not participate.

Despite this, Obasa firmly declared his authority, stating, “I remain the Speaker of the Lagos Assembly. When I assumed office, all my colleagues supported my leadership.”

Obasa Questions Meranda’s Speakership Emergence

In response to reports of Mojisola Meranda’s emergence as the new Speaker, Obasa challenged the process, asking, “Was Mojisola Meranda elected by breaking into the chambers?”

He stressed that any effort to unseat him must adhere to the constitutional provisions. “I believe in the rule of law. I am not against removal, but due process must be followed as per constitutional requirements.”

Crisis Impact on APC in Lagos

Obasa dismissed speculations of division within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, emphasizing that the party remains united. “The APC remains one family in Lagos under the leadership of Cornelius Ojelabi and our GAC leaders,” he asserted.

Additionally, he rejected claims that the ongoing leadership tussle is connected to the 2027 governorship race. “This has nothing to do with a governorship ambition. Governor Sanwo-Olu is performing well, and no reasonable person should be thinking about the 2027 elections at this time. He still has two years left in office.”

Political Stability at Stake

Despite Obasa’s claims of legitimacy, the crisis within the Lagos Assembly continues to raise concerns over political stability in the state. The ongoing tension highlights the need for constitutional adherence and party unity to resolve the leadership impasse.