A conflict has broken out in the Lagos State House of Assembly over the purchase of vehicles worth N5 billion for lawmakers.
News About Nigeria gathered that the issue has deepened the rift between the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and his predecessor, Mojisola Meranda.
Obasa had approved N7 billion in December 2024 for the purchase of vehicles before he was removed from office on January 13, 2025.
His removal came after 35 out of 40 lawmakers voted against him, accusing him of financial mismanagement and excessive control.
With Obasa out of office, Meranda became the Speaker and took charge of the Assembly’s affairs.
During her time in office, which lasted 49 days, Meranda authorized the purchase of 32 Toyota Prado SUVs and seven Toyota Land Cruisers for N5 billion.
Unlike Obasa, who planned to buy the vehicles from Dubai, she chose local suppliers.
Her decision reportedly reduced the cost by N2 billion.
On March 3, 2025, Obasa returned as Speaker after leaders of the All Progressives Congress intervened in the Assembly’s leadership crisis.
However, the conflict did not end with his reinstatement.
Obasa challenged the purchase of the vehicles, arguing that the funds were used without his direct approval.
He insisted that the vehicles should have been bought from his preferred supplier in Dubai.
The dispute has now moved to the courts, with Obasa questioning the legality of his removal and challenging the vehicle purchase.
His legal team argued that the allegations against him, including financial misconduct, should be reviewed despite his return as Speaker.
The Lagos State High Court has scheduled a hearing for March 17, 2025, as the conflict within the Assembly continues.
