Lagos assembly insists Obasa’s removal is legal, confirms release of detained lawmakers

Members of the Lagos state house of assembly have reaffirmed that Mudashiru Obasa’s removal as speaker is lawful and in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Obasa was impeached on January 13 while he was out of the country. The house of assembly members accused him of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

Mojisola Meranda, Obasa’s deputy, was elected as the new speaker of the assembly.

But Obasa has accused the assembly of illegally removing him, insisting that he is “still the speaker until the right thing has been done”.

The lawmakers referenced sections 92 and 96 of the 1999 Constitution to justify that the impeachment of the former Lagos speaker followed due process.

In a statement issued after they visited the Lagos command of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Shangisha on Thursday, the lawmakers said their action was in the best interest of the people of the state.

The lawmakers were at the DSS office over the detention of two of their colleagues who were invited on Wednesday for questioning relating to issues of the state assembly.

TheCable understands that the two lawmakers are Lanre Afinni and Sylvester Ogunkelu.

“The Lagos State House of Assembly, as an independent arm of government, exercised its constitutional duty in the best interest of the people of Lagos,” the statement reads.

“Any attempt to challenge this lawful action undermines the authority granted to us by the Nigerian Constitution.”

They also commended the DSS for its professionalism and for ensuring a smooth and respectful engagement.

They noted that all detained lawmakers have been released.

The lawmakers reiterated their commitment to legislative duties and called on all stakeholders, including the executive and the public, to respect the sanctity of legislative processes and avoid undue interference.