By Ayomide Otitoju
The leadership crisis at the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA) has escalated, with Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and his former replacement, Mojisola Meranda, clashing over the procurement of vehicles for lawmakers.
Sources within the Assembly revealed that Obasa is displeased with Meranda’s decision to procure the vehicles from a local dealer rather than following his initial plan to import them from Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The controversy stems from the purchase of 40 SUVs for lawmakers, a project originally approved by Obasa before his removal as Speaker in January. According to an Assembly insider, Meranda merely executed the plan but opted for local procurement, saving the House approximately N2 billion.
“Obasa had approved the purchase of 35 Toyota Fortuner SUVs and 10 Toyota Prado SUVs from Dubai at N7 billion before his removal in December 2024. Upon his removal, Meranda reviewed the approval, called for local bidding, and approved N5 billion for 32 Toyota Prado SUVs and seven Toyota Land Cruisers, saving N2 billion,” the source stated.
Following his reinstatement as Speaker—reportedly facilitated by President Bola Tinubu and top APC figures—Obasa is now demanding the return of all 40 vehicles procured by Meranda.
The Lagos Assembly has been embroiled in a leadership crisis since January when Obasa was impeached over allegations of fraud and gross misconduct. His removal was short-lived, as Meranda served only 49 days before being pressured to resign by the presidency and APC leadership in Lagos.
Reports indicate that before his removal, Obasa had arranged for the distribution of 45 SUVs—40 for lawmakers, one for the Clerk, and four for himself and his two wives. However, Meranda’s swift intervention disrupted his original plans, fueling the ongoing dispute.
The crisis highlights deeper divisions within the Lagos Assembly, with power struggles continuing to shape its leadership and decision-making processes.
