By Amofokhai Williams
In a fiery declaration before a massive crowd of supporters on Saturday, former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, insisted that he remains the legitimate Speaker of the Assembly, citing constitutional provisions as the basis for his claim.
Obasa addressed his loyalists at the Speaker’s Lodge in Ikeja GRA, where supporters from Agege, Alimosho, and Kosofe local government areas gathered to show solidarity following his controversial removal.
Obasa’s impeachment, reportedly triggered by allegations of gross misconduct and financial mismanagement, has plunged the Assembly into political tension.
However, Obasa dismissed the allegations as baseless, describing claims of corruption and financial impropriety as “impossible.”
“The process that led to my removal did not follow constitutional procedures,” Obasa declared passionately.
“If my impeachment had adhered to constitutional guidelines, I would have no objection. But as it stands, I reject any process that lacks legitimacy.”
Obasa’s defiance comes amidst allegations of financial mismanagement during his tenure, a charge he vehemently denied during the event.
The embattled politician also criticised the lawmakers for what he termed a “flawed and unconstitutional” impeachment process.
“I am not disturbed, I am not afraid,” Obasa said, his voice rising above the chants of his supporters.
“This Assembly must respect the rule of law if it wishes to maintain its integrity. My removal will only stand if due process is followed.”
The dramatic scenes at the Speaker’s Lodge underscored the deep divisions within the Lagos Assembly as Obasa vowed to continue his fight to reclaim the speakership.