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

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.