Punishment For Coup Is ‘Death’ – How Tinubu Snubbed Sanwo-Olu, Insisted On Obasa’s Reinstatement

Obasa Reinstated as Lagos Assembly Speaker Amid Political Power Play

The Lagos State House of Assembly has finally resolved its prolonged leadership crisis as Mudashiru Obasa returned to his position as Speaker in a dramatic political shift. His reinstatement, reportedly influenced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marked the end of the Assembly’s weeks-long turmoil.

Meranda’s Resignation, Influenced By Akande-Led Panel

Lawmakers Reluctantly Accept Meranda’s Resignation

Obasa’s return came after intense negotiations and pressure from top political figures, including Tinubu, who also serves as the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Lawmakers who had led Obasa’s removal on January 13 were forced to accept the resignation of their preferred Speaker, Hon. Mojisola Meranda.

Meranda, who made history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly, held the position for just 49 days before stepping down. She was reinstated to her former role as Deputy Speaker in an emotional session where some lawmakers reportedly shed tears.

As part of the leadership restructuring, Hon. Sanni Okanlawon stepped down as Deputy Chief Whip, while Hon. Setonji David resigned as Chief Whip. However, David was later re-elected as Deputy Chief Whip following a nomination by Hon. Kehinde Joseph. Hon. Richard Kasunmu was reinstated as Deputy Majority Leader, and Hon. Adewale Temitope retained his position as Majority Leader. Meanwhile, former Deputy Speaker Hon. Mojeed Fatai resigned but was later elected as Chief Whip.

Tinubu’s Influence and Political Maneuvering

Reports indicate that Tinubu played a decisive role in reversing Meranda’s election, allegedly deploying security forces and other state institutions to support Obasa’s reinstatement.

The crisis, which began with Obasa’s removal on January 13, was seen as a major act of defiance against Tinubu. In response, the President reportedly viewed the move as a challenge to his authority and took a firm stance on ensuring Obasa’s return.

The resolution was finalized after a high-level meeting of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), a powerful body of APC elders and political leaders in Lagos. During the meeting, Obasa reportedly pleaded for his reinstatement and promised to adopt a different leadership approach moving forward.

Tinubu’s Stern Response to Lawmakers’ Defiance

Despite negotiations, sources claim that Tinubu remained resolute, insisting that Obasa must return as Speaker regardless of opposition or legal considerations. Insiders revealed to ThisDay that Tinubu saw Obasa’s removal as an unacceptable act of rebellion, reportedly warning party leaders that such actions carried severe consequences.

It was further alleged that Tinubu took the matter personally, refusing to meet with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu or consider his position on the crisis. Some sources suggest that Tinubu may have been looking for ways to exert greater control over Sanwo-Olu, possibly as a warning to other political figures in the state.

Lagos Assembly Crisis: A Test of Political Loyalty

The reinstatement of Obasa highlights the deep influence of the APC’s leadership in Lagos politics. While Obasa’s return may bring temporary stability to the Assembly, the broader political implications suggest ongoing power struggles within the ruling party.

As the dust settles, it remains to be seen whether Obasa will indeed adopt a new leadership approach or if the crisis will resurface in the future. For now, the Lagos Assembly remains a battleground for political dominance, with Tinubu’s influence continuing to shape its direction.