The Lagos State House of Assembly has announced that it will wait for former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa's return before deciding on the next course of action, including a potential probe into various allegations against him. This was revealed by the House spokesperson, Olukayode Ogundipe, during an exclusive interview at the Assembly complex in Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday.
Ogundipe stated that the allegations against Obasa, including accusations of financial mismanagement, would be addressed when he is present at the Assembly. "When he is physically present, those issues will be taken care of," he said, referring to the claims of large sums of money being misappropriated. While the House is unsure of how such records were obtained, they assured that the matter would be thoroughly examined once Obasa returns to his seat.
Regarding the possibility of submitting a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation, Ogundipe clarified that decisions would be made after Obasa's return. He hinted that a committee may be set up to look into the matter, but emphasized that the proper procedures would be followed, with the House reacting accordingly at the appropriate time.
The lawmakers had removed Obasa last week, citing corruption allegations. However, Obasa publicly dismissed these claims and insisted his removal was unprocedural, asserting that he remains the legitimate Speaker. "If you want to claim that I’m corrupt, please prove it," he challenged his accusers during a gathering of his supporters on Saturday.
Ogundipe, however, reaffirmed that the removal process was constitutional, stating that the procedure to change the leadership was followed as per the constitution. He also reiterated that Obasa remains part of the Assembly, even after his removal.
Reports indicate that the Assembly did not hold its plenary session on Monday as scheduled. Increased security measures were seen around the Assembly complex, with personnel screening individuals and journalists attempting to enter. The security measures were put in place following Obasa’s comments on Saturday, where he insisted that he remains the Speaker unless the proper process is followed for his removal.
Obasa was removed by a majority of lawmakers on January 13, 2025, due to allegations of misconduct and financial mismanagement. He was succeeded by Mojisola Meranda, the former deputy speaker, who officially took over the Speaker’s office on Monday. Despite the change in leadership, Obasa did not appear at the Assembly on Monday, though Ogundipe emphasized that the situation within the House remains calm and peaceful, unaffected by external noise.
The rescheduling of the plenary session was reportedly to allow the Assembly members time to settle in and demonstrate a sense of unity and tranquility.
