Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has refuted allegations of corruption and misconduct that led to his removal on January 13. Describing the claims as baseless and politically motivated, Obasa insisted he would address the accusations head-on to prove his innocence.
Obasa, who was replaced by his former deputy, Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lawal-Meranda, spoke during a welcome event held in his honor on Saturday in Ikeja GRA. Addressing supporters from Agege, Alimosho, and Kosofe local government areas, the former Speaker dismissed allegations of financial mismanagement, including claims that he spent ₦16 billion on constructing a gate for the Assembly.
“Is it possible to construct an ordinary gate with ₦16 billion? It is not the wall of Jericho or the one that separates the United States from Mexico,” Obasa said, adding that the accusations were a ploy to tarnish his reputation.
He also refuted reports that 45 Hilux vehicles were purchased for lawmakers at an inflated cost of ₦47 billion, stating, “If you divide ₦47 billion by 45 vehicles, it implies each vehicle costs ₦1 billion, which is clearly unrealistic.”
Obasa argued that due legislative procedures were not followed in his removal, maintaining that no formal impeachment process took place. “They attempted to remove me while I was out of the country. Any decision to remove me must adhere to the House’s standing rules,” he asserted.
The former Speaker emphasized his two-decade-long legislative career and commitment to Lagos State, noting his record as the longest-serving member of the Assembly. “I have served as Speaker for ten years and as a member of the Assembly since 2003. What else am I looking for? Nothing. But due process must be followed,” he said.
Obasa also expressed gratitude to party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he referred to as his political father.
He urged lawmakers and stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the Lagos State House of Assembly, adding that previous leadership transitions were handled without external interference or controversy.
“I believe in the image of our institution. We must not destroy it, and I will never partake in its destruction,” Obasa stated.
The former Speaker reiterated his commitment to defending his integrity and working for the betterment of Lagos State while calling on his detractors to substantiate their claims.
