The Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has ruled that the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly was unconstitutional and invalid.
Delivering judgment on Wednesday, Justice Yetunde Pinheiro nullified the Assembly’s January proceedings and resolutions that led to Obasa’s ousting, declaring the process a breach of legislative procedures.
Obasa had taken legal action against the House and his former deputy, Mojisola Meranda, who was named as Speaker following his removal, arguing that due process was not followed.
His counsel, Chief Afolabi Fashanu, contended that 36 lawmakers orchestrated the decision to remove Obasa while the House was on recess and without his knowledge, as he was outside the country at the time.
The court heard that the session was conducted without proper authority or delegation, violating both the Assembly’s Standing Orders and constitutional provisions.
Obasa’s removal was originally linked to allegations of misconduct, leading to Meranda’s appointment as his replacement on January 13. However, in March, the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership intervened, paving the way for his reinstatement.
