Former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa has rejected his impeachment by lawmakers, claiming constitutional procedures were not followed.
Speaking publicly for the first time since his removal on January 13, Obasa denied allegations of corruption and financial misconduct leveled against him.
Obasa, who was abroad when he was ousted and replaced by ex-Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, addressed a large crowd of supporters at the Speaker’s Lodge in Ikeja, Lagos.
He dismissed accusations, including claims of overspending on public projects, as baseless and politically motivated.
Mudashiru Obasa
“I’ve been a lawmaker for over two decades, the longest-serving in the House. If there are corruption allegations against me, they must be proven,” Obasa stated.
He criticized the alleged involvement of Lagos State Police Commissioner Isola Olawale, accusing him of deploying officers to invade the Assembly and his personal residences during the impeachment process.
While maintaining his position as Speaker, Obasa challenged lawmakers to follow due process if they wish to remove him. “I am not afraid of being removed, but it must be done properly. Lagos is too important to be governed with illegality,” he added.
Meanwhile, a member of the Governance Advisory Council, Anthony Adefuye, backed Obasa, agreeing that the impeachment process may have been flawed. However, the Assembly defended its decision, claiming over two-thirds of members supported the removal.
Political analysts and legal experts have urged Obasa to pursue his grievances in court rather than escalating tensions. Some analysts warned that his actions might lead to “political death” if not handled strategically.
The impeachment has sparked broader discussions on the ease of removing legislative leaders in Nigeria, with calls for constitutional reforms to ensure transparency and fairness in such processes.
