- Former speaker may be arrested upon return to Nigeria over alleged N43.5bn fraud
The impeached speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa and two other lawmakers were conspicuously absent during Friday’s plenary session where the new principal officers emerged.
Other lawmakers missing were Nureni Akinsanya (Mushin 2) and the former Majority Leader, Naheem Adams.
The new Speaker of the House, Mojisola Meranda, who presided over the session, unveiled the new principal officers.
The plenary, which commenced at 11 a.m., saw the attendance of a majority of lawmakers representing various constituencies.
Obasa, who represents Agege Constituency 1, was ousted on Monday by a majority of the House members over allegations of misconduct and financial misappropriation.
Before his removal, it was reported that Obasa was on vacation abroad, with sources indicating that he was in Atlanta, United States.
It remains unclear if he has returned to Nigeria.
Since his removal, Obasa has yet to address the allegations made against him publicly.
During Friday’s session, Meranda, the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly, announced the new principal officers of the House.
In her address, Meranda pledged to “work tirelessly to uphold the principles of transparency, good governance, and other noble tenets that this noble House stands for.”
The members appointed Temitope Adedeji (Ifako Ijaiye 1) as Majority Leader, Sanni Babatunde ( Kosofe 1) as Chief Whip, Richard Kasunmu (Ikeja 2) as Deputy Majority Leader while David Setonji (Badagry 2) as Deputy Chief Whip.
The House also set up a Selection Committee to appoint the Standing Committees. The Committee is chaired by the Speaker of the House.
However, the session was marked by the absence of two lawmakers: Adams Noheem of Eti-Osa Constituency 1 and Nureni Akinsanya of Mushin Constituency 1.
Though no reason was given during the session for the lawmakers’ absence, it has raised questions about potential rifts and that they may not be happy with the recent change of leadership in the House.
Thus the Lagos House of Assembly new leadership announcement in Friday’s plenary, sets the tone for legislative activities, and comes at a crucial time as the Assembly seeks to consolidate its role in delivering policies and laws that align with the development aspirations of Lagos State.
Many observers have lauded the smooth transition in leadership but highlighted the critical role the new principal officers will play in ensuring the Assembly remains proactive and collaborative.
A Political Science lecturer at the University of Lagos, Dr. Femi Ogundele, noted that the appointment of Temitope Adewale as Majority Leader reflects a strategic choice.
“Hon. Adewale’s legislative experience positions him to steer the Assembly’s majority bloc effectively, especially in navigating sensitive legislative agendas that require party cohesion,” Ogundele said.
On the other hand, the absence of two lawmakers during such a pivotal session has drawn attention.
A governance expert, Dr. Cynthia Akande, emphasized the importance of full participation in legislative activities.
“Lawmakers need to demonstrate commitment, particularly during the formative stages of a new leadership structure. Absenteeism, whether due to personal or political reasons, could send the wrong signals to constituents and party stakeholders,” Akande observed.
As Majority Leader, Temitope Adewale will coordinate legislative business, ensuring smooth communication between the executive and legislative branches.
The Chief Whip, David Setonji, will focus on maintaining discipline and ensuring adherence to Assembly rules, while Richard Kasumu and Sani Okanlawon will support these efforts through their respective roles as Deputy Majority Leader and Deputy Whip.
The new leadership faces significant challenges, including managing the Assembly’s relationship with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, overseeing effective budget implementation, and addressing pressing urban development issues in Lagos.
Additionally, the Assembly will need to tackle rising concerns about transparency and public engagement in legislative processes.
The unveiling of the Lagos State House of Assembly’s new leadership marks a significant step in the state’s legislative journey.
As the new principal officers assume their roles, expectations are high for a dynamic and responsive Assembly that prioritizes the needs of Lagosians.
However, with two lawmakers absent from the session, questions linger about unity and commitment within the Assembly.
Former speaker may be arrested upon return to Nigeria over alleged N43.5bn fraud
Meanwhile, the embattled former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, might face intense scrutiny from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission following his impeachment on Monday over allegations of misappropriating N43.5 billion state funds.
Sources within the anti-graft agency confirmed that Obasa is expected to be arrested upon his return to Nigeria from the United States.
While speaking on the condition of anonymity, an EFCC insider said, “The evidence against him is overwhelming. This time, he won’t be able to wriggle out. The case has been meticulously compiled, and we are ready to take action.”
Obasa, who had previously faced an EFCC probe in 2020 for allegedly spending N1.1 billion within a week, was cleared without charges. However, this time, officials believe his chances of escaping prosecution are slim.
“Heavy hammer is waiting to fall on him,” the source added, emphasizing the agency’s resolve to ensure accountability.
However, the once-powerful speaker appears to have lost the backing of influential allies, including President Bola Tinubu.
It was learnt that sources close to the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed that Obasa’s calls have gone unanswered, signaling deliberate isolation from the Presidency.
“His political connections have dried up. He’s on his own now,” said a source familiar with the situation.
The EFCC has assured that there will be no disruptions in its plans to apprehend Obasa upon his arrival.
“We have no political interference at all. He will clarify things to our detectives,” an EFCC source stated.
