Strong indications emerged on Wednesday that President Bola Tinubu may have softened his stance on the ongoing leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly following pressure from influential political figures and concerned citizens.
This development comes as the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) of the Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) was unable to secure a physical meeting with the President in Abuja due to his tight schedule ahead of his official visit to France.
High-Level Delegation Briefs Tinubu Remotely
Sources revealed that a high-powered delegation from the GAC traveled to Abuja on Tuesday to brief Tinubu, who is widely regarded as the political godfather of Lagos APC, on the latest developments in the state’s legislature. Their visit followed an emergency meeting held on Monday at the Lagos House, Marina, where Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presided over discussions aimed at resolving the leadership dispute.
The crisis stems from the January 13 impeachment of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and the subsequent swearing-in of Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as his replacement. Despite their efforts, the delegation was unable to meet Tinubu in person, as he was preoccupied with state matters, including preparations for his visit to France and the upcoming African Union Summit in Ethiopia.
However, a telephone conversation reportedly took place, during which the status quo was upheld, effectively confirming Meranda’s position as Speaker.
Obasa’s Impeachment Sparks Political Tensions
Obasa was removed in absentia by 32 out of 40 lawmakers over allegations of financial misappropriation, misconduct, and abuse of office. His impeachment, however, triggered mixed reactions among key APC leaders, the GAC, and political stakeholders in Lagos.
Reports indicate that Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, were displeased with the manner in which Obasa was removed, as well as the process through which Meranda emerged as his successor.
The GAC, led by Pa Tajudeen Olusi—the highest decision-making body of Lagos APC—had sought Tinubu’s final endorsement on the assembly’s leadership structure. A source disclosed that the delegation carried a signed communique from the lawmakers affirming their decision to keep Meranda as Speaker.
Tinubu’s Reported Retraction and Political Implications
With Tinubu unavailable for a physical meeting, the decision was communicated over the phone, signaling a resolution—at least for now. The move suggests that the President may have opted to avoid further confrontation, effectively closing the door on Obasa’s chances of reinstatement.
This shift marks a significant moment in Lagos’ political landscape, reinforcing Meranda’s position while indicating a possible recalibration of power dynamics within the state’s ruling party. The coming weeks may reveal whether this resolution holds firm or if further political maneuvering will emerge.
