••Sanwo-Olu On Collision Course With Mr. President
By Gbenga John, Lagos.
Lagos, Nigeria – February 17, 2025 – A political storm is brewing in Lagos State as lawmakers vow to resist pressure to reinstate Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the House of Assembly, just weeks after his removal. The lawmakers have also condemned the presence of Department of State Services (DSS) personnel at the Assembly complex, labeling it an “invasion” and an attack on democracy.
The crisis escalated on Monday, prompting the House to adjourn indefinitely. Stephen Ogundipe, a member of the Assembly, denounced the presence of security operatives, stating, “This is not government by barrels of gun. This is an aberration of democracy. Nobody can dictate to us.” He and other lawmakers expressed their support for the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.
Kehinde Joseph called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, describing the DSS presence as a “national embarrassment.” He also urged the National Assembly to mediate to de-escalate the tension. Abiodun Tobun argued that internal leadership issues should be resolved through established procedures, not security intervention. “This is unheard of. This is an embarrassment to the Lagos Assembly, embarrassment to the country,” Tobun stated.
Speaker Meranda herself demanded an explanation from the state’s DSS Director for the presence of armed personnel, accusing the service of intimidation and harassment. “I am appealing to the leadership of the DSS to let us know the reason for taking over the House of Assembly,” she said.
The speakership crisis began on January 13th with Obasa’s removal over allegations of financial impropriety and misconduct. He was replaced by his deputy, Meranda. Obasa has since challenged his removal in court.
Observers Times reports that President Tinubu has reportedly pressured the Lagos Assembly to reinstate Obasa, believing the political fallout of his removal outweighs the concerns about alleged corruption. Sources indicate the President wants Obasa to eventually resign on his own terms.
This move has caused a rift within the state’s political circles. While some are willing to comply to avoid prolonged instability, others fear the consequences of reinstating Obasa. Some lawmakers, particularly those loyal to Governor Jide Sanwo-Olu, who is currently serving his second term, are concerned that Obasa’s return could trigger an attempt to impeach the Governor. The standoff underscores a potential clash between the state’s executive and legislative branches, with the added dimension of presidential influence.
