The political landscape in Lagos is heating up as the controversy surrounding the removal of former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, continues to unfold. Obasa, who represents Agege Constituency I, was ousted from his position on January 13, 2025, over allegations of misconduct and financial mismanagement. However, last week, he shocked many by declaring himself reinstated, insisting that his removal did not follow due process.
A House Divided
Obasa’s claims were immediately rejected by a group of lawmakers loyal to the new Speaker, Mojisola Meranda of Apapa Constituency I, who made history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly. The division has fueled tensions, leading to clashes between security forces and legislative workers on February 17, 2025. The crisis took a legal turn when 36 lawmakers, including Meranda, appeared in an Ikeja court in response to Obasa’s lawsuit challenging his impeachment. The case has been adjourned to March 7.
The GAC Connection: Tinubu’s Political Machinery at Work
The crisis has drawn the attention of the powerful Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), the political structure established by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 1999. Reports suggest that Obasa’s removal was orchestrated by key GAC members, who allegedly reported his actions to Tinubu before his ousting. The allegations against him include insubordination to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, which some fear could destabilize the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos.
Olusi Breaks His Silence
In an exclusive interview, GAC Chairman, Pa Tajudeen Olusi, provided insight into the ongoing crisis. Olusi, a veteran politician and former lawmaker under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), dismissed claims of a conspiracy within the GAC to challenge Tinubu’s leadership. He also revealed that he once proposed that all GAC members over 80 should step aside for younger politicians, but the idea was rejected.
Reflecting on the Lagos Assembly crisis, Olusi criticized lawmakers for failing to raise concerns earlier, stating, “They never lodged any complaints with the party until now. But they do have a right to question leadership. However, they cannot remove or install the House leadership without the party’s input.”
He also clarified that the GAC was not responsible for Obasa’s impeachment, emphasizing that the party remains the ultimate authority in resolving disputes.
The APC’s 2027 Outlook: A Tough Road Ahead?
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, Olusi expressed confidence in APC’s chances, stating that President Tinubu is making “steady progress despite economic challenges.” He dismissed opposition alliances as a sign of weakness, arguing that “they know they cannot win alone, hence their desperate search for partnerships.”
What Next?
As the legal battle over Obasa’s removal continues, the APC’s high-powered reconciliation committee, led by Chief Bisi Akande, is working behind the scenes to broker peace. With tensions still high, all eyes remain on the party’s next move to restore stability within Lagos’ political stronghold.
Will the crisis be resolved amicably, or is this the beginning of a deeper rift within the APC? Only time will tell.
