The Lagos State House of Assembly made history on Monday as lawmakers impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa over allegations of financial mismanagement, replacing him with Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, the first female Speaker in the Assembly’s history.
Meranda, representing Apapa Constituency 1, was sworn in at 9 a.m. amid jubilant celebrations. In her brief remarks, she said, “I will not be able to talk now,” promising to unveil her plans in the coming week.
Obasa’s impeachment ends his 10-year tenure as Speaker, the longest in the Assembly’s history. His leadership had been under scrutiny for alleged misconduct, including the misappropriation of funds and lack of transparency in the Assembly’s financial operations.
Lawmakers accused Obasa of gross misconduct via a motion raised by Femi Saheed under the Matter of Urgent Public Importance. Citing Section 92(2)(C) of the Constitution, Saheed alleged:
– Perpetual lateness to legislative sessions.
– High-handedness and disregard for honourable members.
– Abuse of office and privileges.
– Authoritarian and undemocratic leadership style.
Saheed added, “The Assembly’s image and Lagos State’s progress demanded a new direction.” Following a voice vote, 32 of the 40 members endorsed Obasa’s impeachment.
Critics raised concerns over the Assembly’s finances, particularly the N44 billion allocated for vehicles and capital projects between 2023 and 2024. Official records showed:
– N30.19 billion allocated for vehicles in 2023, yet no vehicles were purchased.
– N13.33 billion allocated in 2024, with minimal accounted expenditures.
– Questionable projects, including N17 billion for a gate, N15.65 billion for office construction, and N126 million for Abuja properties.
Obasa dismissed the allegations as “fake news” and “spurious,” stating, “How much is the Assembly’s yearly allocation that we will decide to spend N17 billion on a gate?”
Following Obasa’s removal, lawmakers dissolved all House committees and suspended Clerk Olalekan Onafeko, replacing him with Abubakar Taiwo Ottun as acting Clerk.
Security was tightened at the Assembly complex, with armed personnel from the Rapid Response Squad and Lagos Police Command barring access. Miscreants allegedly linked to Obasa’s Agege constituency were arrested with charms and amulets.
Abiodun Tobun, representing Epe Constituency 1, explained, “The impeachment was unanimous. Change is inevitable, and we felt it was time for a new direction. We are committed to elevating the Assembly’s performance under Speaker Meranda.”
Born on August 16, 1980, into prominent Lagos royal families, Meranda is the daughter of late Chief Lawal Akapo, a legislator and the former Ojora of Lagos. She is a sibling to Oba Gbolahan Lawal, the Oniru of Iruland.
Meranda’s educational background includes:
– St. Charles Nursery and Primary School, and Randle Primary School.
– Anglican Girls Grammar School and Ansar-Ud-Deen Secondary School.
She holds a degree in Public Administration from Lagos State University and has held various roles in public and private sectors, including procurement management. Since her election in 2015, Meranda has served in leadership roles, most recently as Chief Whip of the Ninth Assembly.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reportedly welcomed the news of Obasa’s impeachment with optimism, describing it as an opportunity for improved governance. During a brief Executive Council meeting led by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, members echoed, “Good riddance to bad rubbish.”
Sanwo-Olu is expected to meet with Speaker Meranda and other principal officers to discuss the Assembly’s new direction.
