President Bola Tinubu has settled the leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, endorsing the return of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, despite an earlier recommendation for his resignation.
The resolution followed a closed-door meeting with all 40 Lagos lawmakers at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday.
Key Details of the Resolution:
- Tinubu overruled the recommendation of a panel led by Bisi Akande and Olusegun Osoba, which initially advised Obasa’s resignation after reinstatement.
- The panel’s plan was for Mojisola Meranda to resign as Speaker, allowing Obasa to return temporarily before stepping down for a new Speaker from Lagos West.
- While Meranda resigned and was reinstated as Deputy Speaker, Obasa refused to step down and adjourned the Assembly indefinitely.
Allegations Against Obasa & Tinubu’s Final Decision
- Obasa was impeached on January 13, 2025, by 35 lawmakers, citing financial mismanagement, high-handedness, and authoritarian leadership.
- His refusal to step down after reinstatement had deepened tensions, but Tinubu has now brokered peace, urging lawmakers to work with Obasa for stability.
Withdrawal of Court Case
- Tinubu directed Obasa to withdraw his lawsuit challenging his impeachment at the Lagos State High Court.
- The lawmakers agreed to drop the case and move forward under Obasa’s leadership.
While some Lagos stakeholders are unhappy with Obasa’s refusal to step down, Tinubu is expected to engage all aggrieved parties to maintain unity.