Lagos Speakership Crisis: Tinubu Urges Lawmakers to Retain Obasa

Tinubu Intervenes in Lagos State Speakership Crisis, Backs Obasa In a bid to resolve the ongoing leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, President Bola Tinubu convened a closed-door meeting with Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and aggrieved lawmakers at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The meeting, which took place yesterday, resulted in Tinubu directing that Obasa should retain his position while withdrawing the court case related to the dispute. Obasa Retains Position Amidst Lawmakers’ Grievances Following the high-level mediation, sources revealed that Tinubu emphasized the need for unity within the Assembly, instructing Obasa to ensure better collaboration with his colleagues moving forward. Additionally, the President warned that any future complaints regarding the Speaker’s leadership could lead to serious consequences. Reports indicate that Obasa, who arrived separately at the Presidential Villa around 2:50 PM, was ushered into the President’s office, while other lawmakers, transported in two coaster buses, had earlier discussions before joining the session. Although the meeting’s agenda was not publicly disclosed, sources confirmed that it primarily focused on reconciling the parties involved in the leadership dispute. Lawmakers Affirm Loyalty to Tinubu As the lawmakers exited the meeting around 4:30 PM, they were heard chanting the popular political slogan, “On your mandate, we shall stand,” reaffirming their loyalty to President Tinubu. Despite persistent inquiries from the press, Obasa declined to make any official comments regarding the discussion’s outcome. Similarly, Hon. James Faleke, a member of the House of Representatives who attended the meeting, briefly stated, “It went well.” Obasa Directed to Withdraw Legal Case According to an insider source, the meeting functioned as a peace negotiation, resulting in an agreement that Obasa would continue serving as Speaker. The source further disclosed that Tinubu reproached Obasa for failing to engage his colleagues effectively. However, the President acknowledged that since Obasa had taken the initiative to report the conflict, he had to stand by him. “The President made it clear that the Assembly members should maintain peace. If any more disputes arise, Obasa could lose his position permanently,” the source added. Regarding the ongoing legal battle, it was confirmed that Tinubu instructed Obasa to drop the case in court, solidifying the reconciliation efforts. Unresolved Tensions Persist While Obasa has been reinstated following intervention from key APC stakeholders and the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), tensions within the Assembly reportedly remain. The aftermath of the impeachment attempt continues to linger, hinting that underlying issues may still need further resolution. For more updates on Nigerian politics and governance, visit Vanguard News and stay informed on recent developments. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel

Tinubu Meets Lagos Lawmakers as Speaker Obasa Stays Silent After Private Discussion

ABUJA – President Bola Tinubu held a closed-door meeting on Wednesday with the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and other lawmakers at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Meeting Details and Obasa’s Silence Following the high-profile discussion, Obasa refused to address journalists who had been waiting to gather insights about the meeting’s outcome. Obasa arrived separately at approximately 2:50 PM and was escorted directly to the President’s office. His colleagues, who arrived earlier in two coaster buses, were led through the forecourt for the session with Tinubu. Although the exact agenda was not publicly disclosed, sources suggest that the discussion centered on the recent leadership turmoil within the Lagos State House of Assembly. Lawmakers Show Solidarity with Tinubu After emerging from the meeting at around 4:30 PM, the lawmakers were heard chanting the popular political slogan, “On your mandate, we shall stand.” This gesture is widely interpreted as a demonstration of their allegiance to President Tinubu. The chant lasted for nearly five minutes, resonating throughout the forecourt as the legislators boarded their waiting buses. Speaker Obasa and Faleke Decline to Speak Despite journalists’ attempts to obtain comments, Speaker Obasa refrained from making any statements. He was accompanied by House of Representatives member Rt. Hon. James Faleke, who briefly remarked, “It went well,” when asked about the meeting. Speculations Over Apology to Obasa Unconfirmed reports indicate that some lawmakers might have extended an apology to Obasa following his recent impeachment. It is worth recalling that Speaker Obasa was removed from office by some of his colleagues but was reinstated on March 3, 2025, after intervention from influential political stakeholders, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Lagos State Governing Advisory Council (GAC). Read more about Lagos State politics on The Guardian READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel

Lagos APC Refutes Claims of Plans to Force Speaker Obasa to Resign

Lagos Speaker Engages in Peace Talks, Set to Withdraw Lawsuit The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State has refuted claims that the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr. Mudashiru Obasa, will be stepping down as part of the leadership crisis resolution within the House. The party clarified that Obasa’s resignation was not included in the agreed terms of settlement. Following his re-election, Obasa engaged in a peace dialogue with lawmakers to mend differences and foster unity within the legislative body. Additionally, he has confirmed his intention to withdraw the lawsuit he had previously filed regarding his removal. Leadership Crisis Resolution: Facts vs. Speculations The leadership dispute saw Mrs. Mojisola Meranda stepping down as Speaker, paving the way for Obasa’s re-election. However, reports surfaced that a deal had been struck for Obasa to relinquish his position within 48 hours, allowing a new Speaker from Lagos West to take over—a claim now dismissed by the APC. On Monday, key stakeholders, including the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) Chairman, Pa Tajudeen Olusi, Lagos APC Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, and Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), met with the opposing lawmakers to find a resolution. APC Clarifies Obasa’s Position Lagos APC spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, debunked the speculation surrounding Obasa’s resignation, stating that such an arrangement was never discussed. “To the best of my knowledge, there was no point during negotiations where Obasa’s resignation was mentioned as part of the settlement,” Oladejo affirmed. Regarding the lawsuit against fellow lawmakers, Oladejo confirmed that Obasa would withdraw the case imminently in the interest of restoring harmony within the House and ensuring party unity. Closed-Door Reconciliation Meeting In a bid to mend internal divisions, Speaker Obasa convened a private reconciliation session with 39 legislators at the assembly complex. The meeting, attended by Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, commenced at 2:10 PM. According to sources, the primary goal was to ease tensions and align lawmakers towards a unified legislative direction. A credible insider disclosed that Obasa’s lawsuit against the Lagos State House of Assembly and 33 legislators at the Ikeja Court would soon be withdrawn. Additionally, the House has been instructed to resume its legislative duties the following day. For further insights into the Lagos Assembly’s ongoing leadership developments, visit Vanguard for credible updates. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel

Mudashiru Obasa Reinstated as Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly

Mudashiru Obasa has officially resumed his position as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly following recent leadership changes. His reinstatement comes after the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, the former Speaker, who briefly held the position. Obasa was previously impeached in February over allegations of corruption, leading to a temporary shift in leadership within the House. For more details on the political landscape in Lagos, visit this reputable source. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel

Meranda Steps Down as Lagos Assembly Speaker – Obasa ClaimsMojisola Meranda resigns as Lagos Assembly Speaker

Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has alleged that Mojisola Meranda, who was appointed as his replacement, has officially resigned from the position. Obasa Insists He Remains Speaker Speaking on Politics Today aired on Channels TV on Thursday evening, Obasa asserted that despite his removal by fellow lawmakers, he still holds the position of Speaker. He further disclosed that during a meeting with top Lagos APC leaders at Marina, Meranda personally announced her resignation. Security Details and Office Privileges Addressing concerns regarding the withdrawal of Meranda’s security aides while his own security was reinstated, Obasa remarked, “When my security was taken away without my approval, did I raise any objections? At the Marina meeting, Meranda herself confirmed that she had stepped down. Once you resign, the privileges of the office are revoked.” Legality of His Removal Obasa maintains that his removal, which was reportedly supported by 36 out of the 40 members of the Assembly, does not hold legal ground. “I have never been lawfully removed. I am not against due process, but any removal must align with the House rules and constitutional provisions,” he insisted. Controversial Plenary Session Earlier on Thursday, Obasa made a dramatic entrance into the Assembly complex under heavy security presence. Reports indicate that he presided over a plenary session attended by only four members, raising further questions about the unfolding political drama in the Lagos State Assembly. Read more from Channels TV READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel

Photos: Supporters Rally at Lagos Assembly, Demand Obasa’s Reinstatement

A massive crowd of supporters gathered outside the Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday, calling for the reinstatement of Mudashiru Obasa, the former Speaker who was recently removed from office. Obasa’s Supporters Stage Protest at Lagos Assembly Obasa, who arrived at the complex in the afternoon under tight security, was met by a sea of loyalists carrying placards and chanting slogans in his support. A viral video circulating online showcases the intensity of the demonstration, highlighting the supporters’ firm demand for his return. Background: Obasa’s Removal and Meranda’s Installation The former Speaker was ousted on January 13 while he was abroad, with Mojisola Meranda swiftly appointed as his replacement. Upon his return on January 25, Obasa was greeted by an overwhelming show of solidarity from his followers, reinforcing his continued influence in the Lagos political scene. Obasa Challenges Removal, Leadership Crisis Deepens Since his removal, Obasa has vehemently contested the decision, asserting that he remains the legitimate Speaker of the House. Meanwhile, rumors are intensifying that Mojisola Meranda is under increasing pressure to relinquish her position, as uncertainty looms over the leadership of the Lagos State House of Assembly. Security Developments Raise Further Questions In a fresh development, security aides assigned to the current Speaker were reportedly withdrawn earlier today, further fueling speculations about a possible shift in power. For more details on the unfolding political situation, visit Premium Times – a reputable source for Nigerian political news. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel

Obasa’s Suspension Looms Over Speaker Controversy – Ex-Lawmaker’s Call

Former Lagos Speaker Mudashiru Obasa faces suspension threats for insisting on retaining his position after impeachment. Learn more about this historic political shift. Key Highlights: Former Lagos Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, Faces Suspension Threat Olumuyiwa Jimoh, a former Deputy Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has called for the suspension of Mudashiru Obasa following his insistence on retaining the Speaker’s position despite being impeached. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily program, Jimoh described Obasa’s stance as “impersonation” and stressed that such a claim carries the automatic implication of suspension. “He (Obasa) claims he is still the Speaker, which I think he knows is an impersonation. I feel he should be suspended for that. If I were still in the House, I would move a motion for his suspension,” Jimoh stated emphatically. Obasa’s impeachment occurred on Monday, January 13, 2025, when more than two-thirds of the 40-member House voted him out. The decision was reportedly prompted by alleged misconduct and various other offences. Mojisola Meranda’s Historic Leadership Following Obasa’s removal, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, who previously served as Deputy Speaker, was elected as the new Speaker. Her appointment marks a historic moment, as she becomes the first female Speaker of the legislative body in Lagos State. Obasa, representing Agege Constituency I, had served in the Lagos Assembly since 2007 and was first elected Speaker in 2015. His removal marks a significant shift in the Assembly’s leadership dynamics. Obasa’s Reactions and Claims On Saturday, January 25, 2025, Obasa reaffirmed his claim to the Speaker’s position, stating that the impeachment process was flawed. He argued that the Assembly complex was militarized during the proceedings and insisted that his removal took place in his absence, as he was outside Nigeria at the time. “I remain the Speaker until the right thing is done,” Obasa said, challenging the legitimacy of the impeachment process. This ongoing dispute has sparked debates about the legality of his claims and the possible consequences of his actions. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.

Obasa’s Removal as Lagos Speaker: A Test of Legislative Independence in Nigeria

The removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly raises significant questions about the state of legislative independence in Nigeria. His impeachment, driven by allegations of financial recklessness and abuse of office, was swift and unanimous, with Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda promptly elected to succeed him. Allegations and Political Undercurrents While the allegations against Obasa were serious enough to justify his removal, the role of Lagos political power brokers, particularly the Lagos Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), cannot be ignored. Reports indicate that his impeachment followed a GAC meeting, where his perceived disrespect towards Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was a focal point. Obasa’s open declaration of gubernatorial ambitions only intensified tensions, culminating in his removal. The Influence of the GAC The GAC, an informal yet influential body founded by Bola Tinubu, plays a decisive role in Lagos politics, influencing elections, appointments, and party affairs. Meranda’s immediate visit to the Lagos Governor’s residence to seek the GAC’s blessings after her appointment highlights the council’s grip on political affairs in the state. This reflects a system often described locally as ‘Baba Sope,’ or political godfatherism, where decisions are dictated by a few influential figures rather than democratic processes. Legislative Checks and Balances Ideally, the principle of checks and balances should ensure that both legislative and executive branches operate independently. Obasa’s initial defiance against Governor Sanwo-Olu by rejecting some appointees suggested an effort to assert legislative independence. However, his impeachment process has left political analysts questioning whether true legislative freedom exists in Lagos. Historical Context of Legislative Interference Obasa’s impeachment is not unprecedented in Lagos politics. In 2005, Speaker Jokotola Pelumi faced a similar fate. Historically, the interference of executive powers in legislative affairs has been evident, particularly during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, where multiple impeachments at both state and federal levels weakened legislative autonomy. Expert Opinions on Legislative Independence Senator Neda Imasuen and Dr. Olalekan Hassan argue that legislative independence remains compromised due to the dominance of executive influence. The financial control wielded by the executive often restricts the legislature’s ability to act independently, perpetuating a system of submission to political godfathers. Moving Towards Genuine Legislative Independence Achieving true legislative autonomy in Nigeria requires: The removal of Obasa underscores both the constitutional role of legislative oversight and the challenges posed by external political control. For genuine democracy to thrive, systemic reforms ensuring balanced power dynamics must be pursued. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.