- DSS Arrests Lawmakers
- Lawmakers Allege Intimidation
- Governor Sanwo-Olu May Face Resignation or Impeachment Threats
- Women’s Groups Protest Move Against First Female Speaker
The political landscape in Lagos State is in turmoil following the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa by 32 members of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA). However, fresh reports indicate a plot to reinstate Obasa or replace the newly elected first female Speaker, Mojisola Ojora-Meranda, with a more compliant candidate.
Power Struggle Intensifies
Sources reveal that the Presidency’s hardliners are displeased with Obasa’s ousting, reportedly done without the President’s approval. Plans are allegedly in motion to pressure Meranda into resigning and install either Obasa or Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, a lawmaker representing Ikeja Constituency 2, who is believed to be a relative of the President.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu may also face resignation or impeachment threats if new leadership emerges in the House of Assembly.
Obasa’s Allegations & Political Fallout
The former Speaker, Obasa, was accused of:
- Misappropriation of LAHA funds
- Disrespecting the Governor and party elders
- High-handedness and intimidation of lawmakers
Women’s Groups and Political Reactions
Meranda’s historic election as the first female Speaker was widely celebrated by women’s groups, who have vowed to resist any attempt to remove her. They argue that her emergence signifies recognition of women’s contributions within the ruling party.
Meanwhile, opposition parties are monitoring the situation closely, hoping to capitalize on the APC’s internal crisis ahead of the upcoming Local Government elections.
Implications for 2027 Presidential Elections
Political analysts suggest that this crisis could weaken the APC in Lagos, a state critical for the President’s re-election bid in 2027. The President lost Lagos State to Peter Obi in the 2023 presidential election, and how he handles this crisis could shape his chances of reversing the trend in the next election.