The recently impeached Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, is facing fresh controversy as a Supreme Court document reveals that his name is absent from the official Roll of Legal Practitioners in Nigeria. This revelation raises questions about his legal credentials and adds to the challenges following his impeachment.
The document, dated July 24, 2020, and signed by Gertrude Karenton-Mordi on behalf of the Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, responded to a verification request regarding Obasa’s status as a solicitor and advocate of the Supreme Court. The apex court stated that Obasa’s name was not found in their records and invited him to present relevant documents, including his Call to Bar and qualifying certificates, for enrolment.
The letter stated, “We have checked our records and cannot find the name: MUDASHIRU AJAYI OBASA on the numerous rolls of legal practitioners kept in this Honourable Court. He is at liberty to come to this Honourable Court with his Call to Bar and qualifying certificates for enrolment. If he has done a change of name, he is expected to show proof of the same.”
Dr. Festus Akande, spokesperson for the Supreme Court, confirmed the document’s authenticity, further fueling speculation about Obasa’s claims. Obasa, who had asserted that he earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Lagos State University in 2006, has not yet publicly addressed the issue.
This revelation comes just days after Obasa was removed from office on charges of gross misconduct and abuse of power. His impeachment on Monday marked a historic moment as Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda was sworn in as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The controversy surrounding Obasa’s legal status adds another dimension to his turbulent political career and raises broader questions about the integrity of public officeholders. As the situation unfolds, Obasa may face legal and reputational challenges beyond his recent impeachment.
