Paragraph 1: The Downfall of Mudashiru Obasa
Mudashiru Obasa’s tenure as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly met an abrupt end on Monday, following his impeachment by the Assembly members. The impeachment stemmed from a series of allegations, including financial improprieties such as the alleged withdrawal of N43.5 billion for backup vehicles for lawmakers. Obasa, who was reportedly in Atlanta, USA at the time of his removal, had been speaker since June 2015. His impeachment marks a significant shift in the Lagos political landscape, fuelled by underlying intrigues and power struggles. Following his removal, Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda was elected as the new speaker, and Deputy Chief Whip Fatai Mojeed became the new deputy speaker.
Paragraph 2: Justification for the Impeachment
Abiodun Tobun, representing Epe Constituency 1, emphasized the unanimous nature of the decision to remove Obasa, stating that the change in leadership was inevitable. He highlighted the constitutional power of the House to regulate its proceedings, asserting that the members felt they had “had enough” of Obasa’s leadership. Tobun framed the impeachment as a necessary step to preserve the integrity of the House and to fulfill their duty to their constituents and Lagos State. All standing committees and principal positions were dissolved as part of the restructuring.
Paragraph 3: A History of Controversies
Obasa’s nine-year reign as speaker was marked by various controversies, including accusations of misappropriation of funds and a constant struggle to maintain his position. In 2020, he faced questioning by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding allegations of diverting Lagos funds for personal gain, allegations he vehemently denied. More recently, he dismissed claims of spending N17 billion on a gate and N200 million on a thanksgiving service as politically motivated and “laughable,” suggesting they were linked to the upcoming 2027 elections.
Paragraph 4: The Provocative Speech and Tinubu’s Intervention
A key catalyst in Obasa’s downfall was his speech during Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s 2025 budget presentation. Obasa digressed from the budget discussion to address rumors about his gubernatorial ambitions, asserting that he possessed the necessary experience to contest the governorship, even comparing himself favorably to past governors. This speech was perceived as haughty and disrespectful by some power brokers in Lagos, particularly regarding his dismissive tone towards those who questioned his lineage. While Obasa received a vote of confidence from his allies in the Assembly following the speech, it proved short-lived, lasting only six weeks. Obasa’s fate was seemingly sealed during President Tinubu’s visit to Lagos for the festive season. The Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), led by Tajudeen Olusi, reportedly complained to Tinubu about Obasa’s disrespectful treatment of Governor Sanwo-Olu, citing specific instances. Tinubu, both the national leader of the ruling party and a powerful figure in Lagos politics, was reportedly displeased and reprimanded Obasa for his behavior and for his handling of state political matters.
Paragraph 5: The Impeachment and its Political Implications
Fouad Oki, an APC chieftain, characterized Obasa’s leadership as that of an "emperor," highlighting the former speaker’s perceived arrogance and disregard for protocol. Oki suggested that Obasa’s behavior during the budget presentation, where he kept the governor and other dignitaries waiting for hours, exemplified this attitude. He linked the impeachment to Obasa’s perceived recalcitrance following Tinubu’s intervention and framed the removal as a necessary measure to maintain stability and respect within Lagos politics.
Paragraph 6: The 2027 Election and the Future of Lagos Politics
The timing of Obasa’s impeachment has fueled speculation about its connection to the 2027 gubernatorial race. Obasa was considered a potential contender for the APC ticket, alongside prominent figures like Seyi Tinubu, Akinwunmi Ambode, and Tokunbo Abiru. While Obasa had downplayed his gubernatorial ambitions, his removal clears a path for other contenders. However, former Speaker Adeyemi Ikuforiji questioned the link between the impeachment and the 2027 election, given the significant time remaining. Meanwhile, Governor Sanwo-Olu has distanced himself from the impeachment, emphasizing the separation of powers and describing the event as a purely legislative matter. The impeachment of Obasa signals a potential reshaping of the political landscape in Lagos, with the 2027 elections looming on the horizon.
