Tinubu Pushes for Obasa’s Return as Lagos Speaker – Reports

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has allegedly intensified efforts to reinstate Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, just three weeks after his impeachment.

According to insider sources, Tinubu urged lawmakers over the weekend to reconsider Obasa’s return, warning of potential political fallout. Of the 40-member Lagos Assembly, 38 belong to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). A senior politician who attended weekend meetings revealed to Peoples Gazette:

“The president instructed us to prepare for his reinstatement. He assured that Obasa would only stay briefly before resigning on his own terms.”

Another source added:

“We have agreed to let him return for a ‘soft landing’ because prolonging this crisis could have severe political consequences.”

However, some lawmakers remain uneasy about the move, especially those who backed his impeachment on January 13, 2025.

One legislator warned:

“Bringing him back is like trying to pacify a snake after cutting off its head. The venom will be even deadlier.”

High-Stakes Meeting in Abuja

A crucial meeting is set for Monday in Abuja, where lawmakers resisting Tinubu’s directive are expected to be persuaded. A senior political figure noted:

“Many of us have agreed to reinstate him, but we don’t know how this battle will end.”

Why Was Obasa Impeached?

Obasa was removed as Speaker on January 13 following allegations of misappropriating billions in procurement allocations for vehicles and other items never delivered. His impeachment led to the appointment of Lasbat Mojisola Meranda as Speaker, supported by at least 32 out of 40 lawmakers.

Despite this, Obasa has refused to vacate the official Speaker’s residence in Ikeja G.R.A. After returning from an overseas trip, he reportedly went straight to the Speaker’s Lodge instead of his private home.

A source disclosed:

“He initially claimed he was collecting personal belongings, but he has refused to leave. Madam Speaker is hesitant to forcibly take over the lodge.”

First Lady Remi Tinubu’s Alleged Influence

It remains unclear if First Lady Remi Tinubu played a role in her husband’s push for Obasa’s reinstatement. However, sources claim her intervention prevented the EFCC from arresting Obasa, though she did not oppose an anti-corruption probe.

Political Fallout Looms

Tinubu’s backing of Obasa is expected to deepen political divisions in Lagos. However, lawmakers are reluctant to challenge the president due to his stronghold on the state’s politics.

A frustrated lawmaker remarked:

“Some of us feel humiliated, but no one dares to challenge him openly.”

Sources say Obasa met Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Marina on Saturday to finalize his return, which could happen as early as next week.

When contacted, a presidential spokesman denied knowledge of Tinubu’s involvement. Both Obasa and Speaker Meranda declined to comment.