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ACCOUNTABILITY TIME: Former Lagos Lawmaker, Jimoh Urges EFCC, ICPC to Investigate Obasa's Financial Dealings

ACCOUNTABILITY TIME: Former Lagos Lawmaker, Jimoh Urges EFCC, ICPC to Investigate Obasa's Financial Dealings

27 January, 2025

 

Former Deputy Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Olumuyiwa Jimoh, has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the recently impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, over allegations of financial misconduct.

Obasa was removed from office on January 13 while he was in the United States, following accusations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. In his place, the assembly elected Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker.

Upon his return, Obasa addressed a gathering of supporters in Ikeja GRA, asserting that his impeachment was unconstitutional and pledging to challenge the decision. However, the House reaffirmed his removal, recognizing Meranda as the legitimate Speaker and warning Obasa against any attempts to destabilize the legislative body.

In an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, Jimoh criticized Obasa’s ongoing claims to the speakership, labeling it as impersonation and grounds for suspension. 

“Obasa claims that he is still the Speaker, which, in my view, constitutes impersonation. I believe this calls for his immediate suspension,” Jimoh stated.

The former lawmaker dismissed Obasa’s assertion of unconstitutionality, emphasizing that due process was followed during the impeachment process. 

“Obasa doesn’t need to be present in the House to be impeached. Section 92, subsection 2 of the constitution clearly outlines the procedure,” Jimoh explained.

He further accused Obasa of coercing assembly members during his tenure and revealed that his own removal as Deputy Majority Leader was politically motivated. 

“I wasn’t happy about my removal because I wasn’t notified or given the opportunity to respond. Obasa intimidated and coerced members into signing my removal, but I accepted it in good faith,” Jimoh disclosed.

Jimoh attributed his removal to his opposition to Obasa’s alleged “anti-democratic and anti-due process” policies.

He has now called on anti-corruption agencies to investigate Obasa, asserting that the impeachment is just the beginning of exposing financial improprieties during his leadership.

“The EFCC and ICPC need to investigate the financial dealings under Obasa’s leadership. This is the time to ensure accountability,” Jimoh concluded.