Tinubu Overrides Panel, Keeps Obasa as Speaker Despite Controversy

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic twist to Lagos State politics, President Bola Tinubu has overruled the recommendations of a high-powered mediation panel, throwing his weight behind Mudashiru Obasa to retain his position as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. This decision, which emerged from a high-stakes meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, has upended an earlier agreement that was meant to see Obasa step down.

The panel, led by former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande and former Ogun State Governor Chief Gbenga Daniel, had recommended a power transition aimed at balancing Lagos’ political structure. The plan saw Mojisola Meranda resign as Speaker to allow Obasa’s return—under the condition that he, too, would resign shortly after to make way for a Speaker from Lagos West. However, Obasa’s refusal to step down has ignited fresh controversy.

A Political Tightrope

Obasa was originally ousted on January 13, 2025, by 35 out of 40 lawmakers who accused him of financial mismanagement, authoritarian leadership, and high-handedness. In his place, Meranda was installed as Speaker, only to resign 49 days later under pressure from party leaders. Obasa was reinstated, but rather than stepping aside as agreed, he indefinitely adjourned the Assembly, cementing his grip on power.

On Wednesday, the political showdown reached its climax when all 40 lawmakers arrived at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The meeting, held behind closed doors, saw Tinubu personally intervening to resolve the crisis. According to sources inside the Presidency, the President urged lawmakers to work with Obasa to ensure legislative stability.

“Tinubu met the lawmakers behind closed doors. They spoke on their grievances, and the President has resolved the problems. With the development, Obasa will stay as Speaker. His position is no longer threatened,” a government insider disclosed.

Despite growing unease among some Lagos stakeholders over the broken agreement, Tinubu has promised to engage all aggrieved parties to maintain political unity.

Legal Battle Still Looms

Even as Tinubu solidifies Obasa’s position, the legal battle over his impeachment remains unresolved. Obasa had previously challenged his removal in court, and despite his reinstatement, he has not withdrawn his lawsuit. On Monday, his case was adjourned to March 17, 2025, as Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja continues to hear arguments over the allegations against him.

“The allegations of high-handedness, fraudulent malpractices, and other serious charges must be addressed,” Obasa’s lawyer, Chief Fashanu Afolabi (SAN), said. “These issues cannot simply be ignored.”

However, sources reveal that Tinubu has now directed Obasa to withdraw his legal action, as part of the peace deal struck during Wednesday’s meeting.

What’s Next for Lagos Politics?

With Tinubu’s endorsement, Obasa has secured his stay in office—at least for now. But his refusal to step down as previously agreed has left cracks within the state’s political hierarchy. The coming weeks will determine whether this intervention has truly settled the crisis or merely postponed an even bigger political storm in Lagos.