Thirty-five members of the Lagos State House of Assembly who support the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker have arrived at the Lagos State High Court for the hearing of the case filed by Obasa.
Obasa challenged his removal by at least 36 lawmakers on January 13, 2025, in a suit filed on February 12, 2025, through his lawyer, Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN). The former Speaker claimed he was removed while he was out of the country.
Representing the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, is a legal team led by Mr. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN). Other counsels representing the lawmakers include Mr. Olu Daramola (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN), Mrs. Abimbola Akeredolu (SAN), Dr. Dada Awosika (SAN), Prof. Dayo Amokaye (SAN), Mr. Mofe Oyetibo (SAN), Mr. Olumide Oyewole, and Mr. Wunmi Okeremi.
As of the time of filing this report, the lawmakers had taken their seats in preparation for the hearing.
House Condemns Alleged Attempt to Hold Unauthorized Plenary
Meanwhile, the Lagos State House of Assembly has condemned what it described as an “invasion” by Obasa and three other lawmakers attempting to convene an unsanctioned plenary session on Thursday.
In a statement issued on Friday by its spokesman, Hon. Steve Ogundipe, the House emphasized that the rules governing plenary sessions are clear.
“For the avoidance of doubt, a valid sitting requires formal notice to all members, the presence of a quorum, an approved agenda, and the mace—an essential symbol of legislative authority,” the statement read.
It added that none of these requirements were met, as only five out of 40 members were present, rendering the session unconstitutional and without legislative effect.
The House reaffirmed its commitment to upholding legislative integrity and maintaining the highest parliamentary standards.
“As an institution dedicated to Lagos State’s progress, we shall continue to act within the confines of the law to protect and preserve democratic governance.
“We reaffirm our unwavering support for Speaker Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, who remains firmly in office with the confidence and backing of 36 colleagues. Any speculation about her resignation is entirely unfounded,” the statement concluded.
The House also aligned itself with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in resolving internal disagreements, affirming its dedication to serving Lagosians.
Legal Representation
Obasa’s legal challenge is led by Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), while Speaker Meranda is represented by a team led by Mr. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN) and Mrs. Bimbo Akeredolu (SAN).
Additionally, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) leads Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN) and other lawyers representing the 36 lawmakers, while Mr. Olu Daramola (SAN) and Dr. Dada Awosika (SAN) represent other parties seeking to be joined in the suit.