Mudashiru Obasa Challenges Impeachment as Lagos Assembly Speaker, Cites Use of Fake Mace

 Mudashiru Obasa Challenges Impeachment as Lagos Assembly Speaker, Cites Use of Fake Mace

In a dramatic turn of events, Mudashiru Obasa, the former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has vehemently contested his recent impeachment, alleging that the proceedings were conducted using a counterfeit mace.This claim has ignited a firestorm of controversy, raising questions about the legitimacy of the impeachment process and the integrity of legislative procedures in Lagos State.

The Impeachment Saga: A Detailed Account

On January 13, 2025, Mudashiru Obasa was removed from his position as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. The impeachment was initiated over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. Following his removal, Mojisola Meranda, who had been serving as Deputy Speaker, was swiftly elected and sworn in as his successor, making her the first female Speaker in the history of the Assembly.

Obasa's Allegations: The Use of a Fake Mace

In a statement delivered during a welcome event organized by his supporters from Agege, Alimosho, and Kosofe local government areas in Ikeja GRA, Obasa asserted that his impeachment was conducted using a fake mace.He questioned the authenticity of the mace used during the session, suggesting that it was not the official mace of the Lagos House of Assembly.Obasa's contention is that the use of a counterfeit mace renders the impeachment proceedings unlawful and invalid.

The Mace Controversy: A Deeper Examination

The mace is a symbol of authority in legislative assemblies, representing the legitimacy of proceedings.Obasa's claim that a fake mace was used during his impeachment raises significant concerns about the procedural integrity of the Assembly.If substantiated, this allegation could imply that the impeachment was conducted without proper legal authority, potentially rendering the entire process null and void.

Obasa's Perspective: A Call for Due Process

Obasa emphasized the importance of adhering to due process in legislative matters.He expressed his willingness to accept the outcome of the impeachment if it had been carried out in accordance with established procedures.However, he contends that the use of a fake mace and the alleged invasion of the Assembly chamber and his private residence by over 200 policemen on the day of his removal indicate a breach of protocol.

Legal Implications: Potential Challenges Ahead

Obasa has indicated his intention to challenge the impeachment in court, asserting that the proceedings were flawed due to the alleged use of a fake mace.The outcome of such a legal challenge could have far-reaching implications for the legislative process in Lagos State, potentially setting a precedent for the validity of impeachment proceedings conducted under questionable circumstances.

Public Reaction: A Divided Opinion

The public response to Obasa's allegations has been mixed.Supporters view his claims as a legitimate challenge to an unjust process, while critics argue that the impeachment was a necessary step to address alleged misconduct.The controversy underscores the deep-seated political divisions within the Lagos State House of Assembly and the broader political landscape of Lagos State.

The dispute over Mudashiru Obasa's impeachment and the allegations surrounding the use of a fake mace have brought to the forefront critical issues regarding legislative procedures, the rule of law, and political accountability in Lagos State.As the legal proceedings unfold, all eyes will be on the courts to determine the validity of the impeachment and the future of the leadership within the Lagos State House of Assembly.