Obasa: I Am Still the Lagos Assembly Speaker, Impeachment Unconstitutional

The embattled speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has boldly asserted that he remains the Speaker of the House, despite being impeached by 32 out of 40 lawmakers on January 13, 2025.

Obasa, who was on a vacation in the United States at the time of his removal, described the action as a "coup" and unconstitutional. President Bola Tinubu had also condemned the impeachment, echoing Obasa's claims of an unlawful process.

Upon his return to Lagos after a brief absence, Obasa was warmly received by supporters from the All Progressives Congress (APC), including local government ward executives and key stakeholders in Lagos politics.

Addressing the press during his reception, Obasa emphasized that his removal did not follow the due process outlined in the Constitution, stating that "to impeach a speaker, the Constitution must be followed." 

He expressed his resolve, saying, "I’m not bothered… with that man who alleged that I took part in the removal of former Speaker Jokotade Pelumi, Deputy Speaker Funmi Tejuosho, and suspended lawmakers, due process was followed."

Reflecting on the circumstances of his removal, he added, “Pelumi was on the floor when he was removed. Likewise, Tejuosho and those that were suspended were in the House and there was no involvement of the police.” 

However, he questioned the validity of his impeachment, pointing out the involvement of police officers in the removal process. "How can a multitude of Police officers led by the commissioner of police invade the House and another team evade my residence, lock up my children outside the gate of the residence while my wife was inside?" he asked.

Obasa also reminded everyone of his decade-long tenure as Speaker, stating, "I was Speaker for 10 years, if I’m no longer wanted, from Allah we come and to him, we shall return, but you cannot impeach a speaker with a fake mace."