Mudashiru Obasa: All About the Reinstated Speaker of Lagos Assembly

Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa has once again taken the mantle as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. His return to the position comes just 49 days after he was removed, marking a dramatic turn of events in Lagos politics. 

His reinstatement follows the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who stepped down during plenary on Monday, March 3, 2025.

Obasa’s political journey has been anything but quiet. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a strong political figure in Lagos, navigating various controversies and maintaining his grip on power. But who exactly is Mudashiru Obasa, and how did he rise to become one of the most influential lawmakers in Lagos State?

Obasa’s early life and education

Mudashiru Obasa was born on November 11, 1972, and spent his early years in Lagos. He attended St. Thomas Aquinas Primary School in Surulere before moving on to Archbishop Aggey Memorial Secondary School in Mushin, Ilasamaja, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate.

Determined to further his education, Obasa pursued a degree in law at Lagos State University (LASU), where he graduated in 2006. His legal background has played a role in shaping his approach to legislative matters over the years.

His political career from councilor to speaker

Obasa’s political career began in 1999, when he was elected as a councilor in Agege Local Government under the Alliance for Democracy (AD). He served in that capacity until 2002 before setting his sights on a bigger role.

In 2003, he took a major step forward by winning a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Agege Constituency 1. Since then, he has been re-elected multiple times, holding his position in 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023—a testament to his deep political influence in Lagos.

Becoming speaker and holding power

Obasa was first elected as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly on August 6, 2015. Since then, he has played a key role in shaping legislative decisions in Lagos, making him one of the longest-serving lawmakers in the state.

He has served under four different Lagos governors:

• Bola Ahmed Tinubu
• Babatunde Raji Fashola
• Akinwunmi Ambode
• Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu

Notably, he has held the Speakership position under two of them, Ambode and Sanwo-Olu, solidifying his political standing in the state.

Controversy and removal from office

Obasa’s leadership has not been without controversy. In January 2025, he was removed as Speaker by more than 30 lawmakers in the House, following allegations of corruption. 

This dramatic political shift saw Mojisola Meranda take over as Speaker. However, just 49 days later, the tide turned once again. As part of a resolution to the internal conflicts within the Lagos Assembly, Obasa was reinstated when Meranda resigned from her position. Reports suggest that Obasa may still step down when the House reconvenes, but for now, he is back in power.

His recognition beyond Nigeria

Beyond Lagos politics, Obasa has also gained international recognition. In July 2023, he was honored with honorary citizenship of the state of Georgia, USA, at the Georgia Legislative Black Conference in Atlanta. The recognition was for his contributions to public service both in Nigeria and abroad.

What’s Next for Obasa?

With his reinstatement, questions remain about how long Obasa will remain in office. Political insiders suggest he may resign once plenary resumes, but nothing is certain yet.

For now, Mudashiru Obasa remains a key figure in Lagos politics, proving once again that in Nigerian politics, anything can happen.