Human rights activist, Dr. Segun Awosanya, popularly known as Segalink, has called on President Bola Tinubu to support the Lagos State House of Assembly’s decision to remove Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, emphasizing that the collective will of the lawmakers should not be compromised for the sake of one individual.
In an open letter, Segalink stated, “A great father that you are will not ignore the outcry of 37 kids to pacify one who, going by all indications, including public opinions, has abused the unique privilege he got from you.”
Obasa was removed three weeks ago by his colleagues over allegations of misconduct and was replaced by Mojisola Meranda, who previously served as Deputy Speaker.
According to Segalink, the removal of Obasa was not an act of rebellion but a necessary step to address grievances within the Assembly.
He alleged that under the former Speaker’s leadership, many lawmakers faced marginalization, intimidation, and financial exclusion, while legislative oversight of capital projects was treated as a privilege rather than a fundamental duty.
He reminded Tinubu of his role as a leader who has historically prioritized the majority’s voice in governance. He argued that the emergence of new leadership presents an opportunity to restore accountability and fairness in the Assembly.
“The Lagos State House of Assembly has long been celebrated for its autonomy and efficient self-governance.
“Recent events, however, have led to a speculation that threatens to undermine this hard-earned reputation and the carefully cultivated relationships between the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), grassroots leaders, and other vital stakeholders,” he stated.
“The unanimous decision regarding the former Speaker reflects a watershed moment —not an act of defiance, but rather a necessary response to a deteriorating situation.”
Segalink also warned that reversing the lawmakers’ decision could destabilize Lagos’s political environment, especially following recent elections.
He called on Tinubu to allow the new leadership to stabilize the Assembly while ensuring future compliance with party directives.
“The emergence of new leadership represents an opportunity for renewal and restoration of democratic principles within the Assembly. The current consensus, achieved through considerable deliberation, should be respected. Given Lagos’s delicate political climate following recent elections, maintaining this unity is paramount.
“Your Excellency, your political progeny remain steadfast in their loyalty and respect for your guidance. However, this particular situation calls for allowing the new leadership to stabilize the House while ensuring future compliance with party directives.
“The resolution reached serves as both a corrective measure and a future deterrent against power abuse.
“Preserving this outcome would reinforce the principles of democratic governance that you have long championed,” he added
