Sanwo-Olu dismisses link with Obasa's removal as Speaker

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has debunked insinuations linking him to the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa, the former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Obasa was removed as Speaker on January 13, 2025, over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, corruption, and financial mismanagement.

His impeachment was supported by 32 members of the Assembly.

However, Governor Sanwo-Olu dismissed any link with Obasa’s removal, stressing that the matter was entirely a legislative issue.

According to the governor, the Assembly operates on its independence in managing its internal affairs without any interference from the executive branch.

Sanwo-Olu, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, stated, “It is purely a legislative matter, and the Assembly handled it the best way they could. It has nothing to do with the governor.”

He also highlighted the importance of the separation of powers outlined in the constitution, which defines the roles of the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary.

Indeed, Obasa served as Speaker since 2015. The House of Assembly members accused him of various violations, including financial mismanagement. However, these allegations caused significant tensions between him and his colleagues.

Obasa’s deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was unanimously chosen as the new Speaker. Her election marks a historic moment, as she becomes the first female Speaker in the history of the Lagos State House of Assembly.