In a dramatic turn of events, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has been impeached by lawmakers over alleged gross misconduct and abuse of office.
Following Obasa’s impeachment, the lawmakers have elected the former deputy speaker, Mojisola Meranda, who represents Apapa Constituency 1, as the new speaker; a development that made her the first substantive female Speaker in the history of the state assembly.
Also, the lawmakers on Monday elected the former Chief Whip, Mojeed Fatai, as the deputy speaker for the House.
It was learnt that the impeachment of the Speaker occurred days after he left the state for United States to attend private matters.
The former speaker barely two days after reports emanated that Obasa spent N43.5 billion for back up vehicles for lawmakers, construction of an alternative gates inside the assembly complex and other controversial activities.
The development marked end of Obasa’s speakership reign which started on June 8, 2015, resuming office alongside former one-term governor Akinwunmi Ambode.
Obasa was impeached following a motion moved under the Matter of Urgent Public Importance by Femi Saheed.
Saheed, in line with provision of section 92(2) (C) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, accused Obasa of gross misconduct and poor leadership, which included perpetual lateness to legislative sections and meetings; highhandedness and lack of regard of members; gross abuse of office and privileges; intimidation and oppression of members by inciting them against one another amongst others.
He mentioned that Obasa also practices an authoritarian and undemocratic leadership style in discharging his duties.
He, therefore, moved the motion for impeachment, a suggestion that was supported by the lawmakers during the emergency plenary held on Monday.
Following the adoption of the motion, the impeachment was made by the 32 members through a voice vote.
The Assembly also removed the Clerk, Olalekan Onafeko, who was imposed on the lawmakers by the former speaker and was replaced by Abubakar Ottun as the Acting Clerk of the House.
Consequently, armed security personnel of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS; Lagos Task Force, and state police command have taken over the premises and environs turning back every motorist and person.
Meanwhile, some miscreants who were trying to invade the complex were intercepted, arrested and clamped into a waiting Black Maria.
