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First Lady Remi Tinubu Blocks EFCC Arrest of Impeached Lagos Speaker Mudashiru Obasa Amid Corruption Probe

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Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, has reportedly intervened to prevent the arrest and prosecution of impeached Lagos Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, over an ongoing multibillion-naira fraud investigation. Sources within the presidency disclosed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had prepared to take action against Obasa upon his return to Nigeria. However, Mrs. Tinubu allegedly directed that the investigation continue but that Obasa’s arrest be postponed to maintain political unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State.

An anonymous presidency official stated, “She said he’s useful to them in Agege and its environs, and they don’t want an immediate crack in their ranks now.” The source further explained that “She insisted they should continue their investigation but hold off on any arrest, citing his importance to the party.”

Obasa, who was impeached on January 13 over allegations of budgetary fraud and corruption, holds substantial political influence in key constituencies such as Agege and Alimosho, which were critical to the success of the APC in the 2023 elections.

It is believed that First Lady Remi Tinubu argued that Obasa’s political influence in these areas is vital to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. His arrest at this time could destabilize the APC’s structure in Lagos, according to the sources.

EFCC Investigation and Obasa’s Legal Battle

Obasa has been under investigation by the EFCC since 2020, following reports of illicit asset acquisition and mismanagement of public funds. Although no action was taken against him at the time, fresh corruption allegations, particularly concerning budget misappropriation, led to his recent impeachment.

Despite being cleared for prosecution, sources within the EFCC confirmed that they were awaiting a go-ahead from the presidency to arrest Obasa. However, Mrs. Tinubu’s intervention stopped the move, signaling her significant influence over the matter.

Obasa’s return to Nigeria last week from the United States was met with strong support from his political base. In a press conference following his arrival, Obasa denied the corruption charges, describing his impeachment as “unconstitutional and politically motivated.” He challenged his accusers to “prove it” if they had evidence of corruption.

Strategic Political Considerations

In the 2023 general elections, President Tinubu lost Alimosho to the Labour Party’s Peter Obi, who secured 71,327 votes compared to Tinubu’s 62,909 votes. Sources revealed that President Tinubu is keen on reinforcing the APC’s hold on Lagos ahead of the 2027 elections, making Obasa a significant political asset despite ongoing corruption allegations.

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Sanwo-Olu to Meet APC Stakeholders to Strategize Ahead of LG Polls

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, will tomorrow at noon host a stakeholders’ parley with leaders, elected and appointed officials, as well as chairmanship and councillorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House, Marina.

The high-level meeting is expected to serve as a strategic rallying point for party mobilisation ahead of the July 12 local government elections.

This follows the formal presentation of party flags to the 57 APC chairmanship candidates last week at the party’s state secretariat in Ogba — a colourful event attended by key figures in government and the party hierarchy. The ceremony marked the official commencement of campaigns and provided a morale boost to party faithful in anticipation of another electoral victory.

Lagos LG Polls a Strategic Step Toward Tinubu’s Re-election, Says Sanwo-Olu

The Lagos APC expresses deep appreciation for the trust and confidence reposed in the party by Lagosians, which has continued to drive the state’s unmatched progress across all sectors.

We remain confident that the outstanding achievements of our local councils — particularly in education, primary healthcare, housing, and grassroots social interventions — will be rewarded with widespread voter support at the polls.

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Lagos Pushes Urban Agriculture Agenda, Sensitises Key Stakeholders

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The Lagos State Government, through the State Agricultural Development Authority (LSADA), has called for the adoption of integrated urban farming solutions to address food insecurity and promote sustainable food systems across the state.

This call was made during a one-day Stakeholders’ Workshop on Urban Agriculture held at the Fresh Food Hub, Idi-Oro, Mushin. The workshop aimed to sensitise Heads of Agriculture Units from the 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), as well as environmental health officers, on the strategic importance of urban agriculture.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya—represented by Dr. Rasheed Macaulay, Director of Veterinary Services—stressed the urgency of promoting urban agricultural land use and increasing grassroots awareness. She said that cascading this knowledge with the right education and technical support was vital for building a sustainable food future.

“Integrating agriculture into urban landscapes reduces reliance on external food sources, cuts down transportation costs, and improves access to fresh, nutritious produce,” Olusanya said. “The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems and its agencies, is fully committed to this vision. We are developing enabling policies, strengthening extension services, supporting innovation, and partnering with local councils to scale up urban farming across the state.”

She also noted that urban agriculture must evolve from small pilot schemes to being embedded in schools, homes, markets, and faith-based institutions.

LSADA Programme Manager, Mr. Alade Aliru, highlighted the benefits of cultivating food close to where it is consumed. He explained that this approach reduces the environmental impact of food transportation while fostering greener, healthier cities.

“This workshop is designed to engage stakeholders on the opportunities and practical strategies for implementing urban agriculture in their local communities,” Aliru said. “From backyard gardens to vertical farms and container planting, urban agriculture is becoming a key part of our evolving food ecosystem.”

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Emmanuel Fatai Audu—represented by Director of Fisheries, Mr. Daisi Agarrey—emphasized that rapid urbanisation has placed immense pressure on land and food systems. He described urban farming as a strategic response.

“Urban agriculture is no longer a choice—it is a necessity,” Audu stated. “It’s not just about growing food; it’s about building healthier communities, greener environments, and resilient livelihoods.”

The workshop forms part of Lagos State’s broader commitment to sustainable development and environmental resilience through innovative agricultural practices.

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Adefarasin Granted Bail Following Stun Gun Incident

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The Lagos State Police Command has granted bail to Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, following an investigation into a viral video showing him holding what appeared to be a gun-like object during an encounter with a content creator.

Pastor Adefarasin voluntarily turned himself in to authorities on Tuesday and was subsequently interrogated.

In a statement, the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that the object in question was not a firearm but a stun gun, a non-lethal device classified as prohibited anti-riot equipment.

“Pastor Paul Adefarasin, who turned himself in at the Lagos State Police Command over a viral video where he was seen holding a gun-like object against another road user, was interrogated and has provided a cautionary statement to police investigators,” Hundeyin stated.

He added: “The object seen in the viral video has been confirmed to be a stun gun. While it is not a lethal weapon or firearm, it falls under the category of prohibited anti-riot equipment.”

Pastor Adefarasin has since been granted bail as investigations into the incident continue.

Rapid Response: Lagos CP Says Police Now React Within 5 Minutes

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