- Lawmaker denies Tinubu’s directive to reinstate Obasa
- Governor’s Advisory Council may reach a final decision today
- Group calls for reconciliation between lawmakers and Obasa
- Residents urge legislators to enhance governance and service delivery
Three weeks after the ousting of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly and his replacement by Mojisola Meranda, tensions remain high as opposing factions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) continue their struggle for dominance.
Despite Obasa’s removal, both factions have remained resolute, each maneuvering to assert control. This has led to a media battle, with conflicting narratives being circulated to sway public perception.
A recent media report suggested that President Bola Tinubu had intervened, allegedly pressuring lawmakers to reinstate Obasa due to concerns that his removal could have greater political costs than benefits. However, the Meranda camp dismissed this claim as false, labeling it a distraction aimed at undermining the new Speaker’s leadership.
A lawmaker, speaking anonymously, stated:
“Since Obasa’s removal by 37 members of the Assembly over issues of misconduct, financial mismanagement, and abuse of power, he has made desperate attempts to return. The claim that President Tinubu directed his reinstatement is false. Meranda’s election has been widely accepted, with endorsements from key political figures, including past Assembly members and the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC).”
Findings by News Bulletin suggest that while Tinubu did not approve Obasa’s removal, he has not issued a directive for his reinstatement. According to sources, a close ally informally discussed the matter with Tinubu, who only expressed concerns rather than taking a firm position. Obasa has reportedly struggled to secure a meeting with the President since December, despite backing from an influential figure within the presidency.
Meanwhile, the GAC, tasked with resolving the crisis, has yet to reach a consensus. A meeting at the State House, Marina, ended without a resolution, with members aiming to settle the dispute internally before consulting Tinubu. Another meeting is scheduled for today, where a final decision may be reached.
A senior APC leader from Lagos West declined to comment on the matter, emphasizing that public statements could disrupt ongoing reconciliation efforts. However, he expressed confidence that a resolution would be found, though he did not confirm whether Obasa would be reinstated.
The Nehemiah Movement, a Christian socio-political group, has urged the Assembly and Obasa to prioritize peace and state unity. In a statement, the group’s coordinator, Dr. Olusanya Awosan, emphasized the importance of accountability while encouraging lawmakers to embrace reconciliation.
“While we respect the Assembly’s decision, we urge all parties to uphold ethical leadership. Obasa should accept this as a redirection rather than a defeat, and lawmakers should extend forgiveness, following the example of Christ.”
The group pledged support in facilitating a peaceful resolution and ensuring that legislative duties resume without further disruption.
Meanwhile, Lagos residents have called on their representatives at both state and federal levels to enhance governance and service delivery in 2025. In interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), constituents expressed disappointment over lawmakers’ performance, citing unfulfilled promises and a lack of tangible benefits.
Dr. Abdul-Jelil Tafawa-Balewa, a former presidential aspirant, criticized lawmakers for failing to justify the public trust placed in them, despite significant budget allocations. Similarly, Dr. Ahmed Lawal, a resident of Alimosho Federal Constituency, lamented inadequate legislative efforts in healthcare and infrastructure.
“We expect lawmakers to work closely with the executive to improve public services, especially in education and healthcare,” Lawal said.
Responding to the concerns, the Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Information, Stephen Ogundipe, reassured residents of the Assembly’s commitment to good governance under Speaker Meranda.
“The House will maintain an open-door policy, welcoming constructive criticism and suggestions to serve the people better,” Ogundipe said.
However, he refrained from commenting on the overall performance of lawmakers over the past two years.
As political tensions persist, all eyes remain on the GAC’s next move, which could determine whether Obasa makes a comeback or if Meranda’s leadership will solidify in the Lagos Assembly.
