Impeached Lagos Speaker, Obasa allegedly flees Nigeria following N90bn misappropriation claims

In a dramatic turn of events, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the now-former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, was impeached during a plenary session held on Monday, January 13, 2025.

The decision came amid mounting allegations of financial impropriety, with Obasa accused of misappropriating public funds amounting to a staggering N90 billion.

According to reliable sources, Obasa fled Nigeria shortly after his impeachment, raising further questions about his culpability and the potential legal consequences he faces. His removal marks a watershed moment in Lagos State politics, as it underscores intensifying scrutiny of public officials.

Before his impeachment, Obasa reportedly sought the intervention of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), the apex decision-making body of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC).

Sources allege that he approached key members of the GAC with monetary inducements in a bid to halt the impeachment process. These overtures were unequivocally rejected, leaving him with dwindling support among party stalwarts.

Political analysts suggest that Obasa’s failed overtures reflect the diminishing influence he held within the party, particularly as his tenure had been marked by frequent clashes with political leaders and accusations of mismanagement.

Obasa’s political career, once seen as promising, took a nosedive following his impeachment. As the leader of the Mudashiru Movement Caucus, he had launched a gubernatorial campaign branded as “Muda Eko, Obasa Lagos 2027 Agenda.”

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The campaign sought to position him as a formidable contender for the Lagos State governorship. However, critics have pointed out that his alleged misuse of public funds and poor rapport with key political figures have significantly undermined his aspirations.

Speaking on the implications of Obasa’s impeachment, Dr. Akin Olumide, a political science lecturer at the University of Lagos, remarked, “The impeachment signals a commitment to holding public officials accountable in Lagos State. While political rivalries may have played a role, the allegations of financial misconduct were too grave to ignore.”

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Legal expert Barrister Folashade Olayemi also weighed in, stating, “This case could set a precedent for how corruption allegations against high-ranking officials are handled. If the allegations are substantiated, it would pave the way for more robust mechanisms to check financial misconduct in government.”

In the wake of Obasa’s impeachment, Hon. Meranda, representing Apapa State Constituency, was elected as the new Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Hon. Meranda’s appointment has been hailed by many as a fresh start for the legislative body, with hopes pinned on her ability to restore public trust and ensure accountability.

The impeachment has sparked widespread reactions across Lagos State. Civic groups and anti-corruption advocates have lauded the move, calling it a step in the right direction. However, some remain skeptical, viewing the incident as a symptom of deeper systemic issues within the state’s political framework.

As investigations into Obasa’s alleged financial misconduct continue, the focus shifts to the Lagos State government’s ability to navigate this political crisis and deliver on its promise of transparency and good governance.

Observers are keenly watching to see if the case will lead to meaningful reforms or become another chapter in Nigeria’s long history of unaddressed political scandals.