- The Lagos Assembly’s crisis neared resolution after a meeting with top APC figures, including Bisi Akande and Akinwunmi Ambode
- Talks revealed a potential shift in leadership, with David Setonji emerging as a top contender for the position of Speaker
- As a result, former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa may drop his legal challenge
The political turbulence within the Lagos State House of Assembly may soon be resolved following intervention from high-ranking members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The ongoing dispute, which has left the leadership of the Assembly in limbo, appears set for a potential compromise with suggestions that both the impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, could be stepping aside in favour of a new leader.
According to the PUNCH, the intervention of influential APC figures, including former governors Chief Bisi Akande, Segun Osoba, and Akinwunmi Ambode, is playing a pivotal role in finding a resolution to the crisis.
The APC delegation was reportedly dispatched by President Bola Tinubu to mediate in the escalating dispute after attempts by the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) to resolve the issue fell short.
The conflict began on January 13, 2025, when 36 members of the House voted to remove Obasa from his position, replacing him with Meranda, who was then serving as Deputy Speaker.
The move followed accusations against Obasa of poor leadership, including frequent lateness, authoritarianism, and alleged mismanagement of office.
Many members also cited his disregard for colleagues and the governor, as well as alleged intimidation and corruption.
Obasa, who was in Atlanta at the time, has steadfastly insisted that he remains Speaker, calling for a proper process for his removal.
"I strongly believe I am still the Speaker until the right thing has been done, If you want to remove me, remove me the proper way and I will not contest it." Obasa declared in a press briefing on January 25, 2025.
Efforts to mediate the crisis culminated in a meeting on Sunday, February 23, at the Governor's Lodge in Marina, attended by Osoba, Ambode, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and key GAC members.
The talks reportedly lasted until late evening and included discussions with lawmakers from the Assembly.
A source close to the negotiations told PUNCH that a resolution could be reached within the next week.
One potential solution being considered is the appointment of a new Speaker from the Lagos West senatorial zone, with seniority in the House playing a significant role in the selection process.
Sources have indicated that David Setonji, the current Chief Whip representing Badagry Constituency II, is a leading contender for the position. Setonji, who has been a member of the House since 2015, is seen as a seasoned lawmaker with the experience to unite the factions within the Assembly.
While the names of the seven lawmakers from Lagos West being considered for the role have not been disclosed, a GAC member confirmed that Setonji's credentials make him a strong candidate. "He is not like a first-timer among those in the West," the source noted.
In addition to the leadership change, discussions are reportedly underway for Obasa to withdraw the legal challenge he filed against the Assembly and Meranda.
The former Speaker has taken the matter to a Lagos High Court, arguing that his removal was unlawful since it occurred during the Assembly's recess.
However, with a political solution now on the table, there is growing speculation that Obasa may choose to drop the case.
A GAC member explained that the ongoing political mediation is aimed at bringing about a swift resolution.
"The party is mediating, and at the appropriate time, we shall provide a full report, It’s part of our responsibility to listen to all sides and ensure that conflicts within the legislature or party are resolved,” said Chief Tajudeen Olusi, the GAC Chairman.
DSS allegedly drills Lagos lawmakers over Obasa's impeachment
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Department of State Services questioned several Lagos lawmakers regarding the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Mudashiru Obasa, removed in January over misconduct allegations, insisted his ousting was unconstitutional and politically motivated, prompting the DSS inquiry.
