Political Crisis Deepens in Lagos as GAC Members Clash Over Speaker’s Impeachment

By DAYO ADESULU

Calls for Calm, Arrest, and Resolution as Political Tensions Escalate

LAGOS – The political landscape in Lagos State has been thrown into turmoil as members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the apex advisory body in the state, expressed opposing views on the impeachment of former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.

The controversy follows Obasa’s removal, which has sparked intense debate among GAC members, youth groups, and socio-political organizations, alongside calls for swift intervention to prevent further unrest.

GAC Members Divided Over Obasa’s Impeachment

Prominent GAC members, including former Minister of Defence (State) Senator Musliu Obanikoro and Senator Anthony Adefuye, have publicly disagreed on the legality and process of Obasa’s impeachment.

While Adefuye argued that Obasa’s removal was unconstitutional and flawed, Obanikoro dismissed the claim, calling Adefuye’s comments “careless” and urging members to respect organizational hierarchy.

“The statement by Senator Adefuye is unfortunate and reckless. Such comments should not be made by leaders, especially on a sensitive issue like this. Since GAC has not issued a formal position, no individual member should make personal pronouncements,” Obanikoro stated.

GAC Secretary Seeks Family Resolution

Amid the discord, GAC Secretary Mr. Mutiu Are called for calm, emphasizing that the matter would be resolved internally.

“Whatever is currently happening in Lagos politics is a family affair. As elders, we aim to resolve this crisis through the mechanisms available to the GAC. This issue is sensitive, and as a body, we’ll address it without taking sides,” Are assured.

Youth Groups and Activists Condemn Obasa

The Assembly of Lagos Youths, led by Convener Lasisi Robert, condemned Obasa’s claims that his impeachment was illegal, accusing the former Speaker of attempting to incite unrest.

“Mudashiru Obasa stands impeached, and there’s no going back. His statements about retaining the Speaker’s position are unconstitutional and an invitation to anarchy. We call on the state’s Attorney General to prosecute Obasa for treasonable comments,” Robert declared.

Call for Arrest Over Official Residence Controversy

A socio-political group, Lovers of Lagos, has also demanded Obasa’s arrest for refusing to vacate the official residence of the Speaker.

In a statement by the group’s Secretary-General, Yinka Olatunji, they criticized Obasa’s return to the Speaker’s Lodge in Ikeja GRA, describing it as “a show of shame.”

“Obasa’s return to the official residence has raised concerns. This residence no longer belongs to him, and his actions are fueling unnecessary tension. We urge the police to intervene and restore order as the new Speaker, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, assumes office,” the statement read.

Police Intervention Urged as Tensions Rise

With Obasa mobilizing supporters in his constituency of Agege and the political climate in Lagos remaining volatile, many stakeholders are urging the authorities to act swiftly to prevent chaos.

Observers are closely watching the situation as Lagos navigates this political storm, which could have long-lasting implications for governance in the state.