Political Crisis Erupts in Lagos Following Speaker’s Impeachment
A significant political crisis has emerged in Lagos State following the sudden impeachment of House Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa on January 13, 2025. The removal, which occurred during Obasa’s absence, has exposed growing tensions within President Bola Tinubu’s political network in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Obasa, who served as speaker for a decade, was replaced by Mojisola Meranda, making her the assembly’s first female speaker. However, the impeachment has sparked controversy due to its timing and execution, reportedly conducted without President Tinubu’s direct approval.
The crisis stems from multiple factors, including Obasa’s alleged disrespect toward Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his controversial conduct during the 2025 budget presentation. Sources close to the situation indicate that while Tinubu had previously reprimanded Obasa for his behavior, the president had not sanctioned his removal.
Political Implications
The situation has created a significant power imbalance in Lagos State’s political structure. With Meranda’s appointment, Lagos-West senatorial district—the largest in the state—lacks representation in the state’s leadership, as both Governor Sanwo-Olu and Speaker Meranda now hail from Lagos-Central.
The timing is particularly sensitive given:
Upcoming local council elections
The ruling All Progressives Congress’s (APC) recent loss in Lagos during the 2023 presidential election
Ongoing investigations into allegations of fund diversion against Obasa
Current Developments
President Tinubu has reportedly called for Meranda’s replacement with a representative from Lagos-West to maintain regional balance. However, this proposal faces resistance, particularly given Meranda’s strong connections to Lagos’s traditional institutions through her brother, Omogbolahan Lawal, the traditional ruler of Oniru.
Potential candidates for the speaker position include:
Adedamola Kasunmu, Tinubu’s nephew from Lagos-West
Setonji David Samuel, current deputy chief whip from Badagry
The situation remains fluid, with political analysts warning that further leadership changes could destabilize the state at a crucial time when economic challenges require focused attention.
This crisis represents a significant test for President Tinubu’s political influence in Lagos, a state he has effectively controlled for over two decades, and highlights the delicate balance required in managing Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
Rerefence
Political Crisis Erupts in Lagos Following Speaker’s Impeachment