LAGOS ASSEMBLY CRISIS: Obasa claims Meranda herself declared her resignation

The political drama in the Lagos State House of Assembly continues to play out, as factions have emerged with both sides claiming legitimacy.

In a bid to justify his return to the position of Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, the now embattled Speaker, declared that his successor, Mojisola Meranda, had resigned from her position; a claim that has only deepened the confusion and power struggle within the state’s legislative arm.

In an interview on Channels Television’s “Politics Today,” Obasa, ousted by 36 of the 40-member House, maintained that he remains the legitimate Speaker, brushing off his reported removal as invalid. His stance adds a new twist to the ongoing crisis.

“Meranda herself declared her resignation,” Obasa said, referencing a peace meeting held over the weekend at the Lagos House in Marina. According to him, the meeting, attended by key party leaders, saw Meranda stepping down in front of witnesses.

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“When my security was withdrawn without my consent, did I complain?” Obasa questioned. “Now, when someone resigns from office, the associated paraphernalia is taken away. So the question arises: Have you also resigned? Let them present the resignation letter.”

His words painted a picture of a power struggle rife with political maneuvering and personal stakes. Obasa’s insistence on his legitimacy grew sharper when he added, “If I were to resign, would I still be here? I’m sure you’d still address me as Speaker, even though we’ve never had a conversation before.”

The embattled lawmaker’s defiance wasn’t limited to media appearances. Earlier on Thursday, he arrived at the Assembly complex under heavy security and presided over a plenary session with just four members present — a stark contrast to the 36 members who voted for his removal.

“I have never been removed. I am not against removal, but it must follow the rules of the House and the Constitution,” Obasa asserted.

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