The dramatic impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly has sent ripples through Lagos’ political landscape, marking a pivotal moment as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu tightens his grip on the state’s political machinery in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
Obasa’s Fall from Grace
On Monday, January 13, 2025, Obasa, who has served as Speaker since 2015 and represented Agege Constituency 1 since 2007, was removed from office for alleged gross misconduct and abuse of power. His deputy, Mojisola Meranda of Apapa Constituency 1, was sworn in as the new Speaker, with Mojeed Fatai assuming the role of Deputy Speaker.
Lawmakers unanimously voted for Obasa’s impeachment, citing ethical breaches, poor leadership, and allegations of financial impropriety. Femi Saheed, representing Kosofe Constituency, spearheaded the motion, accusing Obasa of authoritarianism, incitement among members, and misuse of Assembly funds.
Corruption Allegations and Controversial Statements
Obasa has long been embroiled in allegations of financial mismanagement, including claims of spending ₦17 billion on a gate project for the Assembly. He dismissed the accusations as politically motivated and baseless, particularly in light of the 2027 elections.
His tenure was also marked by controversial remarks, such as his 2020 statement dismissing the deaths of individuals during the #EndSARS protests as insignificant. More recently, his assertion that Lagos is exclusively “Yoruba land” and not a “no man’s land” sparked widespread criticism.
Tensions with Governor Sanwo-Olu and 2027 Ambitions
Observers suggest that Obasa’s impeachment was fueled less by allegations of misconduct and more by his rumored ambition to contest the 2027 Lagos governorship. His perceived disrespect toward Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, particularly during the presentation of the 2025 budget, reportedly unsettled Lagos powerbrokers.
During the budget session, Obasa made statements implying his qualifications to succeed Sanwo-Olu, which were viewed by many as premature and arrogant. His comments and actions were seen as undermining the governor’s authority, prompting intervention from key political stakeholders.
Tinubu’s Role and the GAC’s Influence
Sources indicate that Obasa’s fate was sealed during President Tinubu’s festive visit to Lagos. Members of the influential Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), led by Tajudeen Olusi, reportedly voiced concerns about Obasa’s conduct to Tinubu, who was visibly displeased.
Tinubu allegedly reprimanded Obasa for his leadership failures, including a controversial bill attempting to grant the Assembly power to sack the Chairman of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission. The President’s disapproval reportedly emboldened Assembly members to proceed with the impeachment.
The Battle for 2027
The impeachment has heightened speculation about the 2027 governorship race. Obasa was believed to be positioning himself as a contender alongside other heavyweights, including Seyi Tinubu, former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, and Senator Tokunbo Abiru.
Seyi Tinubu has already garnered endorsements from various groups, while supporters of Ambode advocate for a return of Christian leadership to balance Lagos’ political rotation. Obasa’s removal is seen by some as a strategic move to eliminate competition and consolidate the ruling party’s control ahead of the polls.
Sanwo-Olu and Assembly’s Independence
Governor Sanwo-Olu, through his media aide, Gboyega Akosile, distanced himself from the impeachment, emphasizing the separation of powers between the Executive and Legislative arms. He described the development as a strictly legislative matter devoid of external influence.
Conclusion
The impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa underscores the high-stakes political maneuvering in Lagos as key players jostle for influence ahead of the 2027 elections. It also highlights the strategic consolidation of power by President Tinubu, whose enduring influence continues to shape Lagos’ political dynamics.
