By DAYO ADESULU
GAC, Lawmakers Reach Compromise Amid Leadership Dispute
After weeks of intense political turmoil, indications emerged on Wednesday that President Bola Tinubu has backed down from further intervention in the Lagos State House of Assembly speakership crisis, allowing the status quo to remain. This decision comes amid mounting pressure from influential political figures, party stakeholders, and concerned citizens.
GAC’s Attempt to Meet Tinubu Falls Through
The Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), the apex decision-making body of the Lagos APC, had dispatched a high-level delegation to Abuja to present the outcome of a crucial meeting with 39 lawmakers at Lagos House, Marina. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu moderated the discussions in a bid to end the impasse.
However, due to Tinubu’s tight schedule—including preparations for an official visit to France—the delegation was unable to meet with him in person. Instead, a telephone conversation ensued, during which the matter was reportedly settled, allowing the new Speaker, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, to retain her position.
How the Crisis Began: Obasa’s Ouster
The leadership crisis erupted when 32 out of 40 lawmakers voted in absentia to remove former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa on January 13, 2025, over allegations of:
✅ Financial misappropriation
✅ Misconduct and high-handedness
✅ Abuse of power
Obasa’s removal and replacement with Meranda sparked mixed reactions within the GAC, APC faithful, and the general public—including President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, who reportedly opposed the selection process.
Tinubu’s Concerns Over Power Balance Ignored
Despite conceding to Obasa’s exit, Tinubu reportedly objected to the speakership remaining in Lagos Central, given that Governor Sanwo-Olu also hails from the region. He proposed that the position be shifted to Lagos West for geopolitical balance.
However, lawmakers from Lagos West—comprising about 20 members—rejected the offer, despite being promised lucrative political incentives. Instead, they pledged their unwavering support for Speaker Meranda, even at the risk of losing their seats in the 2027 elections.
Sanwo-Olu Breathes a Sigh of Relief
With the crisis now resolved, Governor Sanwo-Olu can refocus on governance, having been heavily distracted by the political drama in recent weeks.
A source close to the government stated:
🗣️ “This is a big relief for Mr. Governor, who has been working tirelessly to resolve the matter amicably.”
Lawmakers Resume Normal Activities
With the deadlock broken, members of the Lagos State House of Assembly are set to resume normal legislative sittings on Thursday at 11 AM, after weeks of inactivity due to party interventions.
APC Chieftains Call for Party Unity
Amid the fallout, prominent APC figures, including Fouad Oki and Dr. Segun Awosanya, have called for an end to internal disputes, urging party leaders to respect the legislature’s decision.
In a letter addressed to the APC and GAC leader, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, Fouad Oki emphasized:
🗣️ “We must recognize that the decision has been made and stands as a fait accompli. Prolonging this discord will only polarize our party further.”
Similarly, Dr. Awosanya urged President Tinubu to respect the lawmakers’ independence, stating that any attempt to overturn their decision could undermine the party’s credibility and disrupt Lagos’ political stability.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for APC
This resolution marks a critical moment for Lagos politics and the APC’s internal structure. With 2027 elections on the horizon, the party must now focus on rebuilding unity, regaining public trust, and ensuring governance continuity under the Greater Lagos Project.
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