Toba Owojaiye reporting
Lagos, Nigeria
The crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly escalated on Monday as operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigeria Police stormed the Assembly complex in Ikeja, sealing off the offices of Speaker Mojisola Meranda, her deputy, and the Clerk of the House.
The unprecedented security clampdown follows the ongoing power tussle between newly installed Speaker Meranda and embattled former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, who was controversially removed from office on January 13, 2025, while he was in the United States. Obasa has since dragged the Lagos Assembly to court, seeking to nullify his impeachment.
Truth Live News gathered that, as of 10 a.m., heavily armed security personnel had taken over the premises, screening all visitors and staff. However, Meranda managed to arrive with her convoy at about 11:15 a.m., further deepening the uncertainty over the leadership of the state’s legislature.
Obasa Fights Back, Demands Reinstatement
Obasa, who has held sway as Speaker since 2015, has filed a lawsuit at the Ikeja High Court, challenging the legality of his removal. The suit names the Lagos State House of Assembly and Speaker Meranda as defendants. His legal team, led by Chief Afolabi Fashanu, SAN, is seeking an accelerated hearing, arguing that his impeachment violated constitutional provisions and House rules.
According to court filings, Obasa’s case rests on the argument that:
The House had no constitutional authority to convene during recess and impeach him in his absence.
The impeachment process violated Sections 36, 90, 92(2)(c), 101, and 311 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The continued leadership of Meranda is unlawful, necessitating urgent judicial intervention.
“The nature of this action requires it to be heard and determined expeditiously to prevent a legislative crisis in Lagos State,” the suit reads in part.
Tinubu’s Political Empire Faces a Rude Awakening
This political drama is more than just a leadership battle; it signals a major shift in Lagos politics, which has been under the firm grip of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for over two decades. The former Lagos governor and APC national leader has long dictated the state’s political direction through the powerful Governance Advisory Council (GAC).
However, Obasa’s impeachment has divided the GAC, with some members supporting his removal while others insist he was illegally ousted. Tinubu himself reportedly described the incident as a “coup,” hinting at displeasure over the manner in which his loyalist was removed.
This crisis could be a defining moment for Lagos politics, as it tests the strength of Tinubu’s influence over the state’s power structure. If Obasa succeeds in his legal battle, it could shake the foundation of APC’s internal control, setting a precedent for further cracks in Tinubu’s long-established political dominance.
What Happens Next?
With the DSS sealing key offices in the Assembly and legal fireworks underway, all eyes are on the judiciary. Will the courts uphold Obasa’s impeachment, or will they rule in his favor? More importantly, will Tinubu intervene directly, or will this be the first major sign of his waning influence in Lagos politics?
For now, Lagos remains on edge as the battle for control of the state’s legislative arm intensifies.