Lagos Assembly Crisis: Obasa’s Impeachment And GAC’s Role

Lagos Assembly Leadership Crisis: Obasa’s Return Sparks Controversy

In a dramatic turn of events, the former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has declared his return as head of the legislative body, despite his removal on January 13, 2025, over allegations of misconduct. Representing Agege Constituency I, Obasa insists that his impeachment was invalid as due process was not followed. He argues that his removal occurred in his absence while he was outside Nigeria, and he strongly opposes the militarization of the Assembly Complex during the process.

However, lawmakers supporting the newly elected Speaker, Mojisola Meranda of Apapa Constituency I, reject Obasa’s claims, asserting that Meranda remains the legitimate leader. Meranda’s appointment marked a historic moment as she became the first female speaker in the history of Lagos State.

Escalating Tensions and Legal Battle

The ongoing power struggle has heightened political tensions in Lagos. Security forces and legislative staff clashed on February 17, 2025, amid the crisis. In a legal twist, 36 state lawmakers, including Meranda, appeared before an Ikeja court following Obasa’s lawsuit challenging his impeachment. The court has scheduled a hearing for March 7, leaving the situation unresolved and possibly escalating further.

Reports suggest that the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), a political structure established by President Bola Tinubu since his tenure as Lagos governor in 1999, played a role in Obasa’s removal. It is alleged that some GAC members pushed for his impeachment after grievances against him were reported to Tinubu. The accusations against Obasa include insubordination toward Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and alleged financial mismanagement within the Assembly.

GAC Chairman Tajudeen Olusi Speaks on the Crisis

Tajudeen Olusi, the Chairman of GAC, has shed light on the ongoing impasse in an exclusive interview. With a robust political background dating back to his time as a lawmaker under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), Olusi addressed speculations of internal power struggles within the GAC. He dismissed claims that there is an attempt to undermine Tinubu’s leadership, stating that such rumors are unfounded.

Olusi revealed that, three years ago, he proposed that GAC members above 80 should step aside for younger politicians. However, this motion was met with resistance. Reflecting on the current crisis, he emphasized the importance of the GAC’s role in resolving disputes, citing their intervention in past conflicts between Sanwo-Olu and Obasa over commissioner nominations.

The Lagos Assembly’s Institutional Challenge

According to Olusi, the Lagos Assembly operates under constitutional provisions, though it functions semi-independently. He acknowledged Obasa’s willingness to find a resolution but warned that political opponents often exploit internal divisions to destabilize parties. He urged lawmakers to prioritize unity over factional disputes.

Regarding allegations of a GAC split over Obasa’s impeachment, Olusi clarified that GAC members are not Assembly members and were not involved in the decision to remove Obasa. He emphasized that the Assembly should have consulted the party before proceeding with the impeachment. He also highlighted the APC’s responsibility in resolving internal conflicts through party mechanisms.

Future of the APC and 2027 Elections

Despite the ongoing turmoil, Olusi remains optimistic about APC’s future. He emphasized the importance of party unity and governance, expressing hope that President Tinubu will continue leading the country effectively. He acknowledged that political disputes are inevitable but stressed that party structures exist to mediate and resolve conflicts efficiently.

Conclusion

The leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly remains unresolved, with Obasa challenging his removal and GAC distancing itself from the controversy. As the court prepares to hear the case, political analysts predict that the outcome will significantly impact Lagos politics and the APC’s future in the state. For now, all eyes are on the judicial process and the role of party leadership in restoring stability.