The leadership crisis within the Lagos State House of Assembly has taken a new turn, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos clarified that the resignation of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa was not part of the settlement terms agreed upon to resolve the ongoing dispute.
Obasa, who was reinstated as Speaker on March 3 after Mojisola Meranda resigned under political pressure, has since engaged in reconciliation efforts with aggrieved lawmakers. The peace parley held at the assembly complex aimed to mend divisions among legislators and chart a path forward for the House.
During this meeting, Obasa reportedly committed to withdrawing a lawsuit he had filed against his colleagues over his earlier removal.
The leadership crisis began on January 13 when Obasa was impeached by a majority of lawmakers over allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and poor leadership. Meranda was subsequently elected as Speaker.
However, her tenure lasted only 49 days before she stepped down amidst intense lobbying by APC leaders, including Lagos APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi and Attorney General Lawal Pedro. Her resignation paved the way for Obasa's return, a move that has been described as a testament to the influence of party power in Lagos politics.
Reports suggest that while Meranda’s resignation and Obasa’s reinstatement were part of the negotiated resolution, there were rumors that Obasa would also resign within 48 hours to allow for a new Speaker from Lagos West, as demanded by some lawmakers.
However, APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo dismissed these claims, stating that no such arrangement was included in the terms of settlement. Oladejo emphasized that Obasa’s focus is on fostering peace and progress within the House and the party.
