Obasa, who was originally chosen as Speaker during the Eighth Assembly in 2015, was reelected during the Ninth Assembly in 2019, and has now been elected for the third time, making him the first person in Lagos, and maybe Nigeria, to accomplish the feat.
Obasa is elected Speaker of the Lagos Assembly for the third time in a row. Rt. Hon Mudashiru Obasa, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Agege State Constituency 1, has been chosen Speaker of the 10th Assembly for the second time in a row.
He is also the longest-serving state legislator in Nigeria, having been elected to the state legislative assembly for the first time in 2003 and remaining in the assembly ever since. Obasa’s rise came as a result of Tuesday’s declaration.
The state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also inaugurated the 10th Assembly. He was elected unanimously by the House’s 40 members after emerging as the single nominee for the seat. Hon Adewale Temitope Adedeji (Ifako Ijaiye) proposed the nomination, which Hon Sylvester Ogunkelu (Epe 2) seconded.
Similarly, Hon Mojisola Lasbat Meranda of Apapa 1 was chosen deputy speaker of the 10th Lagos State House of Assembly. After Olusola Desmond Elliot (Surulere 1) recommended her for the job, the 40 members voted unanimously to elect her.
Gov Sanwo-Olu, while pronouncing the 10th Assembly, called it as a historic occasion that symbolizes not just the continuation of the state’s democratic path, but also the vitality of democracy in Nigeria, but also the critical role of legislative power in the governing system.
It plays an essential role in the journey we’ve embarked on,” he said of the legislature, which he regarded as an indispensable cornerstone of democracy. It is the manifestation of our people’s dreams and aspirations, a critical partner in the pursuit of effective administration, and a keeper of our common democratic principles.
The governor maintained his neutrality in the House leadership selection process, maintaining that his interest is in how the House can work together with the administration, regardless of who fills what post, to accomplish the shared responsibility to the people of Lagos State. “Each of you, regardless of position, brings unique value and expertise.
As we look to the future, let us remember the value of cooperation, dialogue, and mutual respect.” In this democratic journey, the Executive and the Legislature are partners. “Our common goal is to build a Lagos where everyone thrives, opportunities abound, and our cultural diversity propels us forward,” he said.
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Obasa offered to work with the Executive to advance the state in his acceptance address. “We cannot achieve greatness by working alone,” he stated. As a result, I encourage all levels of government to collaborate in order to create a Lagos State that we can all be proud of.
We have an opportunity to work together to build a better Lagos; a Lagos that gives equal opportunities for everyone; a Lagos that is safe and secure; and a Lagos that serves as an example for sustainable development in Nigeria and around the world.”
He also stated that the 10th Assembly would promote and strengthen legislative institutions at all levels of government, from state to municipal. “The 10th Assembly would also reaffirm its commitment to establishing a Centre for Democracy and Legislative Studies.
The Assembly would review old laws in order to bring them up to date, particularly laws that established agencies and parastatals that are no longer viable; and re-jig our regular legislative consultation; as well as ensure prudent fiscal and financial policies through robust and engaging legislative consultation.
The Speaker also warned that the sanctity of the legislature as an independent body was adequately provided for in the Constitution in accordance with the principles of separation of powers, and that no other arm of government would be allowed or permitted to interfere with the legislature’s functioning and independence in such a way that the legislature would become subservient or subordinate.
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It must be emphasized that in any constitutional democracy, the legislature must be allowed to operate independently, particularly in accordance with Section 101 of the Constitution, which grants it the power to regulate itself without violating the Constitution.”
Obasa stated, that he is eager to collaborate with the 10th Assembly in order to develop meaningful policies and foster an environment in which hopes and dreams may be realized.
The Speaker nominated the Majority Leader of the House and the Deputy Majority Leader, and both were unanimously confirmed by voice vote. Hon Noheem Adams (Eti-Osa 1) and Hon Damola Kasumu (Ikeja 2) are their names.
The Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip, Mojeed Fatai (Lekki 1) and David Setonji (Badagry 1), were also elected in the same manner as the Majority Leader and Deputy Majority Leader. They took the oath of office and the oath of allegiance, and the remaining lawmakers followed suit, ushering in the 10th Lagos State House of Assembly.
