The Lagos High Court sitting in Ikeja has ruled that all members of the Lagos State House of Assembly must be joined as parties in the ongoing legal suit filed by former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Justice Yetunde Pinheiro, who presided over the matter, also adjourned the case until March 7, 2025, for the hearing of all pending applications.
Obasa had approached the court to challenge his removal from office by at least 36 of his colleagues on January 13, 2025, while he was abroad. In his application, dated February 12, 2025, and filed by his legal counsel, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afolabi Fashanu, Obasa claims that the decision to remove him was carried out in his absence and was thus unlawful.
In response to the ongoing litigation, prominent legal figures have stepped forward. Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Tayo Oyetibo, is leading the legal team representing Speaker Mojisola Meranda, while Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Bimbo Akeredolu, and other lawyers are assisting in her defense. On the other side, Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, is leading the legal representation for the 36 lawmakers who voted for Obasa’s removal, with SAN Muiz Banire also part of their team. Additionally, Senior Advocates Olu Daramola and Dada Awosika are representing other parties seeking to be joined in the lawsuit.
The case, which has garnered considerable attention due to its implications for the leadership of the Lagos State House of Assembly, will now proceed with all lawmakers being included as parties in the dispute.
The March 7 hearing is expected to address any pending applications and move the legal proceedings forward.
