Ousted Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, has declared that he has resumed his role as the parliament’s leader.

Obasa made this statement on Thursday after returning to the assembly complex with police and State Security Service operatives, marking his first appearance since his removal on January 13.

“I’ve resumed, and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly,” Obasa told reporters. When asked about his reinstatement, he insisted, “I’ve never been removed. Impeachment or removal is democratic and constitutional, but due process must be followed. I am not against that. If I were, then I wouldn’t be democratic.”

Reports indicate that Obasa, accompanied by security personnel, entered the Speaker’s Office around noon on Thursday, shortly after the security aides of the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, were withdrawn.

The Lagos Assembly has been in turmoil following Obasa’s removal and Meranda’s election as Speaker. Over 90% of lawmakers accused Obasa of poor leadership, habitual lateness, high-handedness, intimidation of colleagues, and disregard for both the legislature and the governor.

In an effort to resolve the crisis, top APC figures—including former Osun, Ogun, and Lagos State governors Bisi Akande, Segun Osoba, and Akinwunmi Ambode—held meetings with key political stakeholders last weekend at the directive of President Bola Tinubu.

Following the discussions, it was revealed that both Obasa and Meranda might step aside, allowing another lawmaker to take over as Speaker. Chief Muraina Taiwo, a Governors Advisory Council member, hinted that one of the seven lawmakers from Lagos West is being considered for the role.

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