Lagos Assembly Crisis Ends as Obasa Returns as Speaker Amid Tinubu’s Influence

Political tension in the Lagos State House of Assembly reached an unexpected resolution yesterday as Mudashiru Obasa was reinstated as Speaker. This dramatic turn of events, reportedly influenced by President Bola Tinubu, saw Hon. Mojisola Meranda resign from the position she held for 49 days, marking the end of a leadership crisis that began on January 13.

Obasa’s Dramatic Return

The crisis started when lawmakers removed Obasa as Speaker, replacing him with Meranda—the first female Speaker in Lagos Assembly history. However, sources claim that Tinubu, the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), viewed Obasa’s removal as a direct challenge to his authority. In response, he allegedly deployed security forces and state institutions to ensure Obasa’s reinstatement.

Following an intense meeting with the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) on Sunday, Meranda stepped down, restoring Obasa’s leadership. Alongside her resignation, Hon. Sanni Okanlawon resigned as Deputy Chief Whip, while Hon. Setonji David relinquished his role as Chief Whip. These leadership adjustments paved the way for a return to the pre-crisis structure.

Political Fallout and Tinubu’s Influence

Insiders suggest Tinubu took Obasa’s removal as a personal affront and refused to engage with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu during the standoff. Reports indicate the president viewed the incident as a political coup, emphasizing that such acts typically warrant severe consequences.

A member of the GAC expressed disappointment in what he described as Tinubu’s “arrogance with power,” highlighting that the crisis had caused lasting damage to all involved, including the president, the governor, and the APC in Lagos. The lawmaker noted that underlying tensions between Obasa, other legislators, and Sanwo-Olu could weaken the party’s stability in the state.

Lawmakers Pay Tribute to Meranda

Despite her resignation, Meranda received glowing tributes from fellow lawmakers during the Assembly’s plenary session. Hon. Aro Moshood acknowledged her leadership, stating,

“Madam Speaker, under your leadership, we have witnessed a new focus, presiding with passion. You have been a source of inspiration to us. Thank you, may God bless you.”

Obasa, now firmly back in power, expressed gratitude to political heavyweights such as Chief Bisi Akande and Chief Olusegun Osoba for facilitating his return.

What’s Next for Lagos Politics?

While Obasa has regained his position, the crisis has exposed deep divisions within Lagos APC. Political observers believe the episode may have lasting repercussions, particularly concerning Tinubu’s dominance over the state’s political structure and Sanwo-Olu’s standing within the party.

With the Assembly adjourning sine die, the political landscape in Lagos remains tense, leaving many to wonder what the next chapter will bring.