Mudashiru Obasa, the reinstated Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has welcomed the court ruling that nullified his removal, describing it as a victory for democracy and the Lagos Assembly as an institution.
In a statement released by his media office on Wednesday, Obasa said the judgment reaffirms the legislature’s commitment to unity and good governance.
“This is a victory for the Lagos House of Assembly as an institution and for our current and future members,” the statement read.
“It reinforces the desire for us as members of the House to move ahead in unity and harmony and continue to work for the good of our people, our beloved Lagos State, and Nigeria.”
Earlier on Wednesday, the Lagos High Court in Ikeja ruled that Obasa’s ouster as speaker on January 13 was null and void. Justice Yetunde Pinheiro, who presided over the case, set aside the proceedings and resolution that led to his removal, which occurred while he was abroad.
Obasa had been removed by a majority of lawmakers who accused him of gross misconduct and abuse of office. In the wake of his removal, Mojisola Meranda, then deputy speaker, was elected as the first female speaker of the Lagos assembly.
Upon returning to the country, Obasa rejected the development, labeling it illegal, and filed a lawsuit challenging the decision.
On March 3, after 49 days in office, Meranda stepped down during a plenary session, paving the way for Obasa’s re-nomination and re-election by his fellow lawmakers.
