President Bola Tinubu has directed members of the Lagos State House of Assembly to reinstate Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, sources familiar with the situation told DAILY GAZETTE.
The directive comes three weeks after Obasa’s impeachment over allegations of corruption and abuse of office, which rocked the state’s political landscape.
According to sources, Tinubu expressed concerns that Obasa’s removal could have greater political consequences than any potential benefits from holding him accountable.
With 38 of the 40 lawmakers belonging to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu’s influence is expected to weigh heavily on the decision.
“The president has instructed us to start making arrangements for his return,” a senior Lagos politician disclosed.
“He insists that Obasa will only serve a short time before stepping down on his own terms.”
Another politician, speaking anonymously, added, “We have decided to reinstate him for a soft landing. The political fallout from prolonging this crisis could be severe.”
However, some lawmakers who supported Obasa’s removal remain apprehensive.
“Bringing him back is like reviving a snake after cutting off its head,” one legislator warned. “The consequences could be disastrous.”
To ensure full compliance, Tinubu has reportedly summoned key political figures to a meeting in Abuja on Monday.
Lawmakers who remain hesitant are expected to be persuaded to align with the president’s stance.
Obasa was impeached on January 13 after an investigative report exposed how he allegedly misappropriated billions in procurement allocations meant for vehicles and other expenses.
Following his removal, Lasbat Mojisola Meranda was elected as Speaker.
However, sources say she has struggled to assert authority over Obasa, despite having the backing of at least 32 lawmakers.
Adding to the tension, Obasa has refused to vacate the Speaker’s official residence in Ikeja G.R.A.
“He initially claimed he needed time to remove his personal belongings, but he has refused to leave,” a source revealed.
“Madam Speaker is too intimidated to challenge him.”
The extent of First Lady, Remi Tinubu’s involvement in the matter remains unclear.
However, her reported intervention in preventing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from arresting Obasa has raised further questions.
Tinubu’s push for Obasa’s return is expected to deepen internal divisions within Lagos’ political circles.
However, given the president’s strong grip on state politics, lawmakers may feel compelled to comply rather than risk political repercussions.
“Many lawmakers feel humiliated by this decision,” a source admitted. “But no one wants to challenge the president, who also leads the party.”
When contacted, a presidential spokesman said he was unaware of Tinubu’s directive.
Meanwhile, both Obasa and Meranda declined to comment.
Sources also confirmed that Obasa met with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the Government House in Marina on Saturday to finalize plans for his return.
An aide to the governor acknowledged the meeting but did not provide further details.
Obasa’s reinstatement could take effect as early as next week.
