Lagos Assembly Resumes as Obasa Reconciles With Lawmakers
Calm has returned to the Lagos State House of Assembly following the reinstatement of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, with a notable reduction in the heavy security presence that marked previous sessions. However, tensions briefly flared as former Clerk Olalekan Onafeko arrived at the Assembly complex with armed security personnel. Initially denied entry with his escort, he was later permitted inside alone after negotiations.
A source within the Assembly claimed that Onafeko had previously forced his way into his locked office after suspension, even granting media interviews from within. His return was reportedly to hand over Assembly property, including keys.
The day’s focus was a parliamentary session convened by Obasa to solidify agreements reached with lawmakers before his reinstatement. Later, he held a closed-door reconciliation meeting with 39 legislators, including Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda. The meeting aimed to mend divisions and restore unity among members.
Despite speculation about his resignation, recent developments suggest Obasa may remain Speaker. Reports indicate he could also withdraw the lawsuit he filed against the Assembly and 33 lawmakers following his removal.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) criticized the leadership crisis, calling it an embarrassment to democracy. PDP Vice Chairman (Lagos Central), Hakeem Olalemi, condemned the prolonged conflict, stating it had stalled governance and damaged democratic processes in the state.
