Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has distanced himself from the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa, the former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, who was removed from office on Monday, January 13, 2025.
The impeachment, approved by 32 Assembly members, was based on allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, corruption, and financial mismanagement. 
Responding to the development, Governor Sanwo-Olu, through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, clarified that the impeachment was entirely a legislative affair, with no interference from the executive arm of the government.
“It is purely a legislative matter, and the Assembly handled it as they deemed appropriate. It has nothing to do with the governor,” Akosile stated during an interview with The Punch.
The governor further emphasized the importance of the constitutional principle of separation of powers, which guarantees the independence of the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary.
This principle, he stressed, allows each arm of government to operate without undue influence or interference from the other.
Obasa, who had served as Speaker since 2015, faced allegations that reportedly created significant tension between him and other lawmakers.
The accusations, including financial mismanagement and corruption, led to his eventual removal.
Following his impeachment, Mojisola Meranda, the former Deputy Speaker, was unanimously elected as the new Speaker, making history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
While Governor Sanwo-Olu has refrained from commenting directly on the specifics of Obasa’s tenure, sources close to the governor indicate his optimism about fostering a more collaborative relationship with the new Assembly leadership.
Sanwo-Olu reportedly sees Meranda’s emergence as an opportunity to strengthen ties between the executive and legislature in the pursuit of Lagos State’s development goals.
The impeachment of Obasa, though a painful development for his supporters, highlights the Assembly’s commitment to accountability and the need for leadership that prioritizes the interests of Lagosians.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who has reiterated his dedication to a just and transparent government, remains focused on working with those committed to making Lagos a better place.
This situation serves as a reminder of the necessity for public officials to uphold integrity and accountability in their roles, ensuring justice for all citizens and prioritizing the welfare of the state.
As the dust settles, residents are hopeful that this new chapter in the Assembly will lead to better governance and renewed focus on the state’s pressing issues.
