The ongoing leadership dispute in the Lagos State House of Assembly took a new twist on Monday when reinstated Speaker Mudashiru Obasa changed the legal representation for the Assembly in the ongoing court case.
This move sparked strong reactions from the 35 lawmakers who had previously impeached him.
The case, being heard at the Ikeja High Court, involves a suit filed by Obasa challenging his removal on January 13, 2025, amid accusations of fraud, abuse of office, and misconduct.
Justice Yetunde Pinheiro adjourned the case to March 17, following the filing of new applications by both parties.
Outside the courtroom, Obasa’s new lead counsel, Afolabi Fasanu (SAN), addressed the media, clarifying that the recent filings were in response to arguments made in court the previous Friday.
One key issue is whether Obasa was outside the country at the time of his impeachment, with evidence already presented to support his claim.
However, Obasa’s decision to change the Assembly’s legal team without consulting the majority of lawmakers has raised more controversy.
Femi Falana (SAN), who represents the 35 lawmakers, expressed surprise at the decision.
He stressed that the law does not allow a plaintiff to unilaterally select legal counsel for the defendants, noting that the lawmakers had already appointed their own legal team.
This development comes amid a power struggle in the Lagos Assembly.
After Obasa’s removal in January, Mojisola Meranda was appointed as Speaker.
However, she resigned on March 3, which led to Obasa’s controversial reinstatement.
The next court session, scheduled for March 17, is expected to address critical issues surrounding the legality of Ob
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