By Anastasia John E
Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have issued an apology to President Bola Tinubu for their recent decision to initiate the impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. This development comes after an emergency meeting convened by the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) of the Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Lagos House in Marina on Monday night, which was attended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.
Sources reveal that President Tinubu expressed dissatisfaction with the impeachment process and directed that it be reversed. The GAC, which serves as the highest decision-making body within the Lagos APC, reportedly faced internal disagreements over the matter, with some members feeling sidelined during the removal of Obasa.
During the meeting, lawmakers were instructed to draft two apology letters to the President. The first letter acknowledged the misstep of removing the Speaker without consulting party leaders and pledged to reconsider Obasa’s removal in favor of a voluntary resignation. The second letter, signed by 17 out of 20 lawmakers from Lagos West, recognized Hon. Mojisola Meranda as the Speaker and stated their intention to disregard the party’s zoning formula, allowing her to complete her term.
Obasa was impeached on January 13, 2025, following allegations of misconduct, abuse of office, and financial misappropriation, leading to Meranda’s appointment as his successor. The impeachment has sparked significant turmoil within the party’s leadership, with some GAC members, including Senator Anthony Adefuye and Chief Muraina Taiwo, publicly opposing the decision and labeling it illegal. Their dissent was met with criticism from Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, who urged party leaders to avoid making hasty public declarations.
Reports indicate that President Tinubu has instructed the Assembly to prepare for Obasa’s reinstatement, suggesting that he will serve only briefly before resigning on his own terms. A senior Lagos politician confirmed this, stating that the President aimed to mitigate the political fallout from the situation.
Another GAC meeting is expected to take place to discuss the President’s response to the lawmakers’ letters. Meanwhile, there are indications of resistance to Tinubu’s directive, particularly from Governor Sanwo-Olu, who is reportedly seeking to oppose Obasa’s reinstatement while maintaining a facade of loyalty to the President.
Political unrest has begun to surface, particularly on Lagos Island, where protests have emerged in support of Meranda, signaling a deeper rift within the party as factions vie for influence and control.
As the situation unfolds, the implications for Lagos State’s political landscape remain uncertain, with tensions rising among party leaders and lawmakers alike.
Credit to Sahara Reporters
