Sanwo-Olu dismisses alleged involvement in Obasa’s impeachment

By Sodiq Adelakun

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has dismisses allegations that he played a role in the impeachment of the former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.

The Governor’s spokesman, Gboyega Akosile, responded to rumours suggesting that the Governor’s political rift with Obasa had led to the Speaker’s removal.

He made the disclosure during an interview with newsmen on Tuesday.

Akosile said that the impeachment was purely a legislative matter, underscoring that the Governor had no influence over the proceedings.

“There is absolutely nothing true about that, the Governor is busy with serious matters, taking care of the over 20 million Lagosians,” He said.

He continued by clarifying that the Governor and the public were only made aware of the removal of Obasa through media reports, just like everyone else.

“What happened in the Hallowed Chamber was purely the prerogative of the legislators. We saw it on the media, just like you. The Governor must have watched it like any other person,” he said.

On Monday, 32 out of the 40 lawmakers in the Lagos State House of Assembly voted to impeach Obasa during an emergency plenary session.

Nigerian NewsDirect reports that the impeachment was reportedly due to allegations of gross misconduct. Following the Speaker’s removal, Mrs. Mojisola Meranda, the former Deputy Speaker, was elected as the new Speaker, while Mr. Fatai Adebola assumed the position of Deputy Speaker.

The Assembly also took actions by suspending the Clerk of the House, Olalekan Onafeko, indefinitely, and dissolving all principal offices and standing committees within the Assembly.