Tinubu Overrules Akande Panel, Endorses Obasa’s Return as Lagos Speaker Amidst Crisis
In a surprising turn of events, President Bola Tinubu has intervened to resolve the ongoing leadership crisis within the Lagos State House of Assembly, backing the reinstatement of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker. This decision comes despite an earlier recommendation from a mediation panel, headed by prominent political figures including former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande, which had advised Obasa’s resignation.
The conflict reached a boiling point after Obasa’s impeachment on January 13, 2025, where 35 lawmakers accused him of authoritarian leadership, financial mismanagement, and high-handedness. Although Obasa was reinstated as Speaker on March 3, following the resignation of his replacement, Mojisola Meranda, he refused to step down as initially agreed. This caused friction among the lawmakers and stakeholders, leading to the intervention by President Tinubu.
On Wednesday, March 12, Tinubu hosted all 40 Lagos lawmakers at the Presidential Villa in Abuja to broker peace and resolve the dispute. The meeting, held behind closed doors, saw the President personally address the grievances of the lawmakers. A source within the Presidency confirmed that Tinubu’s intervention led to a consensus where Obasa’s position as Speaker is now secure, with all lawmakers agreeing to work together to ensure stability in the Assembly and across Lagos State.
Despite some dissatisfaction from Lagos stakeholders regarding Obasa’s failure to uphold the previous agreement, the President remains committed to engaging all parties involved to maintain harmony within the Assembly. Additionally, Tinubu has directed Obasa to withdraw his ongoing lawsuit against his impeachment, which had been filed at the Lagos State High Court.
The saga, which has been marked by political maneuvering and legal battles, continues to unfold as the focus now shifts to how the lawmakers will move forward under Obasa’s leadership.
Will Obasa’s leadership stabilize the Assembly, or will tensions resurface? Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving political drama.
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