The Lagos State House of Assembly has cautioned its impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, against taking actions that could destabilise the legislative arm and escalate political tensions.
The warning comes after Obasa, who addressed supporters upon his return from the United States on Saturday, claimed that his removal as Speaker did not follow due process.
In a statement on Saturday, signed by Ogundipe Olukayode on behalf of the Assembly, the lawmakers stood firm on their January 13 decision to impeach Obasa over allegations of misconduct and mismanagement.
The Assembly also reiterated its support for the newly elected Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.
“It is imperative to clarify that over two-thirds of the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly are solidly united behind the new Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.
“We stand by the decision taken to impeach Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa and we shall defend our position to the latter,” the statement read.
The lawmakers emphasised their commitment to good governance and maintaining a harmonious relationship with other arms of government, stressing that the assembly’s decision to remove Obasa as Speaker was within their constitutional rights.
“All members were elected from their various constituencies across the state, and we all have the inalienable rights under the necessary statutory orders to remove our principal officers, including the Speaker,” Olukayode stated.
The statement further described Obasa’s recent posture as “uncalled for and unparliamentary,” urging him to embrace peace in the interest of the state.
“I appeal to the former Speaker to toe the line of peace and harmony as being followed by others, as the current intransigent posture will heat the polity and not augur well.
“Any attempt to heat the polity will be resisted by the majority of distinguished members who unanimously elected Rt. Hon. Meranda,” Olukayode warned.
The lawmakers pledged their resolve to protect the Assembly’s integrity and uphold peace across Lagos State. “Peace we want in Lagos, and peace we will achieve,” the statement concluded.
Obasa was removed following allegations of misconduct and mismanagement.
