Shehu Sani, a former Nigerian senator and right activist, has identified five potential reasons responsible for the impeachment of Modashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly..
In a post on X, Sani shared insights drawn from Nigeria’s democratic experience since 1999, following the recent impeachment of Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Recall The lawmakers of the Lagos State House of Assembly recently impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Sani’s post highlighted the following key reasons for Speaker impeachments:
Suspicion of Plotting Impeachment: A Speaker who is suspected of plotting the impeachment of others in the government is often seen as a threat.
Resistance to Governor’s Influence: Speakers who become too independent and resist taking orders from the state governor can be targeted for removal.
Failure to Cater to Lawmakers’ Welfare: A Speaker who neglects the welfare of assembly members, leaving them dissatisfied or “hungry,” risks facing backlash.
Obstruction of Key Bills: Deliberately delaying or obstructing the passage of bills important to the governor can lead to the Speaker’s impeachment.
“Allegations of Collusion: If a Speaker is accused of colluding with the governor’s political enemies, it can serve as grounds for their removal.”
In a swift development, Hon. Mrs. Mojisola Miranda was elected as the new Speaker of the Assembly. She represents the Apapa 1 constituency.
Meanwhile, there is a heightened security presence around the State House of Assembly following the impeachment.
Obasa’s removal comes amidst reports that he was allegedly nursing a governorship ambition for the 2027 elections.