Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has filed a motion at the Ikeja Division of the State High Court, challenging his recent removal from office. He is also seeking an accelerated hearing of the case.
The motion, submitted on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, lists the Lagos State House of Assembly and the newly appointed Speaker, Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, as defendants.
Through his legal team, led by Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), Obasa is requesting several court orders, including the urgent scheduling of a hearing for the case. He is also seeking a reduction in the time allowed for the defendants to file their responses to seven days, while his own reply on points of law should be limited to three days after receiving the defendants’ documents.
Obasa’s suit is based on nine legal grounds, focusing on the interpretation of various sections of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Standing Orders of the Lagos State House of Assembly. He argues that his removal on January 13, 2025, was unconstitutional, as the House convened during a recess without his authorization or a legitimate directive from any other authority.
“The legality of the continued sitting of the House under its present leadership, in violation of established laws and rules, demands urgent determination,” the motion stated.
Obasa insists that the matter is of significant public interest and must be resolved quickly to prevent disruptions to legislative activities in Lagos State. He further argues that an expedited hearing would not cause any injustice to the parties involved.
Following his removal, Obasa has been absent from Assembly sittings, while Meranda has since moved into the Speaker’s office. However, some lawmakers and political stakeholders have urged him to accept his removal in good faith.
