Politics
LAGOS ASSEMBLY CRISIS DEEPENS: OBASA, MERANDA LOCK HORNS IN POLITICAL SHOWDOWN
LAGOS ASSEMBLY CRISIS DEEPENS: OBASA, MERANDA LOCK HORNS IN POLITICAL SHOWDOWN
The leadership crisis rocking the Lagos State House of Assembly has reached a boiling point, with no resolution in sight as the 35 lawmakers who ousted Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker remain adamant that he will not be reinstated.
Despite Obasa’s dramatic return to the Assembly on Thursday—bolstered by restored security details and an impromptu plenary session with only four lawmakers—the embattled lawmaker’s claim to the speakership faces stiff resistance. His successor, Mojisola Meranda, remains firmly in control, backed by a significant majority of lawmakers who have vowed to uphold their decision.
Obasa’s Defiant Comeback Obasa’s return to the Assembly comes on the heels of intense political maneuvering within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Following a high-profile meeting that included former Osun and Ogun governors, Chief Bisi Akande and Aremo Olusegun Osoba, alongside Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other key party figures, a resolution was reportedly reached. The agreement suggested that Obasa should resign, while Meranda would step down to pave the way for another Speaker from Lagos West Senatorial District. However, that plan crumbled when Obasa stormed the Assembly complex with a full security escort, proclaiming his reinstatement.
“I’ve resumed, and I remain the Speaker of the Assembly. I’ve never been removed,” Obasa defiantly told reporters. “Impeachment or removal is democratic and constitutional, but it must follow due process. I am not against that. If I do that, then I am not democratic.”
Tinubu’s Alleged Influence in the Power Struggle There are strong indications that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political machinery played a role in Obasa’s sudden resurgence. According to insider sources within Lagos APC, Obasa’s return was the result of a late-night meeting held at Lagos House, Marina, with top party leaders loyal to the President.
A source close to the negotiations disclosed, “Obasa’s return to the Assembly is a direct outcome of that meeting. The lawmakers rejected the panel’s recommendation that Meranda should step down. Even those from Lagos West, who were supposed to produce a new Speaker, refused the offer. Eventually, a reluctant compromise was reached to consider Honourable Setonji David, but the lawmakers were not enthusiastic about it. Seeing their hesitation, Obasa, with support from the Presidency, made his move.”
An APC stalwart further described Obasa’s reinstatement attempt as a “massive political statement,” warning that it could spell the end of the once-powerful Governance Advisory Council (GAC).
“The GAC’s influence is crumbling. They failed to resolve this crisis, and now the President had to step in through his own loyalists. This means Lagos politics is changing, and there will be casualties when this dust settles.”
Tensions Mount at the Assembly Complex The Assembly complex has turned into a fortress, with a heavy security presence maintaining order as the crisis intensifies. On Friday, armed operatives from the state police command, task force, and mobile police officers took control of the premises, restricting movement and barring entry to unauthorized individuals. Over 25 patrol vehicles lined the roads leading to the Assembly, while police officers stood guard at strategic locations.
Assembly workers described the eerie emptiness of the usually bustling complex, attributing it to the political uncertainty. “Normally, you would see people all over the place, but after what happened on Thursday, many are staying away,” a staff member revealed.
Courtroom Drama: Legal Battle Begins The battle has also shifted to the courts. A heated legal showdown unfolded on Friday at the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, where Obasa filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of his removal. The suit, filed before Justice Yetunde Pinheiro, argues that the House’s proceedings during a recess were unlawful since Obasa neither reconvened the Assembly nor delegated his authority.
A dramatic twist occurred when two different lawyers claimed to represent the Assembly. Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, appeared on record for the Assembly, but another lawyer, Abang Mkpandiok, challenged him, claiming he had been newly briefed by the House. The standoff led to a temporary suspension of proceedings as the court deferred ruling on the representation issue.
Meranda Fires Back: ‘A Show of Shame’ Reacting to Obasa’s attempted return, Speaker Mojisola Meranda dismissed his actions as a desperate bid for power.
“To me, what happened on Thursday was just a show of shame. In our job, we work with numbers that form a quorum. If you are sitting with only three or four members, you’re merely staging a drama,” she declared.
Despite the turbulence, Meranda remains confident in her position, asserting that the Assembly will reconvene soon—contrary to Obasa’s claim that the House is on recess. She also revealed that her full security detail had not been restored, saying, “I have my people and God with me. I am not afraid.”
Lawmakers Stand Their Ground A growing number of lawmakers continue to rally behind Meranda. Spokesperson for the Assembly, Ogundipe Olukayode, confirmed that 35 lawmakers, including Meranda, remain resolute in their decision.
“We are 35 strong as we speak, including Madam Speaker. The House will reconvene soon. We are consulting with our leaders, and the party is also working on the matter. But Lagosians should rest assured—we are committed to serving them.”
Lawmakers from different constituencies echoed this sentiment. Honourable David Setonji of Badagry Constituency II, through his media aide, reaffirmed their stance: “Meranda is the recognized Speaker. Obasa was rejected, and he is not coming back.”
Lagos APC Walks a Tightrope The Lagos APC leadership appears to be walking a fine line, calling for peace while struggling to maintain neutrality. APC state spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, described the crisis as a “quarrel between siblings,” assuring that the party is working towards reconciliation while respecting the legislature’s independence.
However, growing allegations of presidential involvement raise questions about the true dynamics at play. A senior legal practitioner pointed out that recent security shifts—including changes in the DSS leadership and the police commissioner—hint at federal influence in the crisis. “Obasa’s confidence in challenging 35 lawmakers suggests that Abuja is pulling strings,” he alleged.
What’s Next? With no clear resolution in sight, the Lagos Assembly crisis has morphed into a high-stakes political battle that could redefine power dynamics in the state. The coming days will determine whether Obasa’s defiance will prevail or if Meranda’s majority-backed leadership will stand firm against the political storm.
One thing is certain—Lagos politics has entered uncharted waters, and the outcome of this crisis will shape its future for years to come.
Governor Dauda Lawal Approves Gratuity Payment
The Zamfara State Government, under the visionary leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal, has approved the release of funds for the payment of Gratuity Batch 3 for the 2024/25 period. This decisive action underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of retired civil servants who dedicated years of service to the state’s development.
The Accountant General of the State is already working diligently to ensure that all eligible retirees receive their payments promptly and efficiently, reflecting the government’s resolve to uphold transparency and accountability in the disbursement process.
This timely gratuity payment is a testament to Governor Dauda Lawal’s people-centered leadership, which recognizes the sacrifices and contributions of retirees to the progress and stability of Zamfara State. It also reaffirms the government’s pledge to honor its financial obligations without unnecessary delays.
The Zamfara State Government calls on all retirees in the affected batch to exercise patience as the necessary administrative and financial processes are finalized. Every effort is being made to ensure smooth and uninterrupted payments.
This initiative is part of Governor Dauda Lawal’s broader vision to empower citizens and retirees, strengthen confidence in public service, and sustain the morale of those who have committed their lives to the growth of Zamfara State.
Politics
APC Group Endorses Fubara for 2027, Calls on Tinubu and APC to Prioritise Performance Over Politics in Backing Governor’s Second Term Ambition
*APC Group Endorses Fubara for 2027, Calls on Tinubu and APC to Prioritise Performance Over Politics in Backing Governor’s Second Term Ambition*
The APC National Vanguard has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to support a second term in office for Siminalayi Fubara, citing what it described as “impressive and verifiable developmental strides” across Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its National President, Dr Gbenga Salam (JP), the group said its position followed an extensive assessment tour of key infrastructure and public service projects executed under the Fubara administration.
The APC National Vanguard said the appeal was based strictly on performance, arguing that governance outcomes should outweigh partisan considerations, particularly in a state as economically significant as Rivers.
“We respectfully urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress to support the continuity of Governor Siminalayi Fubara beyond his current tenure, in recognition of his commitment to development, prudent resource management, and people-focused governance,” the statement read.
According to the group, its delegation visited multiple project sites across the state, observing ongoing and completed works spanning road construction, urban renewal, and public infrastructure upgrades.
It noted that the scale and distribution of these projects reflect a deliberate effort by the state government to extend development beyond traditional urban centres and into underserved communities.
“Our findings from the tour reveal a government that is not only active but intentional in its development agenda. The execution of capital projects across various parts of Rivers State demonstrates a clear understanding of the needs of the people and a commitment to addressing them,” Dr Salam said.
The group particularly commended what it described as prudent financial management by the administration, noting that the projects reviewed showed evidence of careful planning and efficient allocation of resources.
“At a time when economic pressures are evident across the country, it is commendable that the Rivers State government has managed its resources in a way that delivers visible and impactful development without signs of fiscal recklessness,” the statement added.
The APC National Vanguard further observed that despite political tensions in the state, the Fubara administration has maintained focus on governance, ensuring continuity in project execution and service delivery.
The group argued that such stability is critical for sustained development and should be encouraged rather than disrupted.
“Leadership must ultimately be judged by results. In Rivers State, there is clear evidence of progress—projects that are not only announced but executed, and policies that translate into real benefits for citizens,” Dr Salam noted.
The group warned that discontinuity in leadership could stall ongoing projects and reverse gains already recorded, stressing the importance of allowing a performing administration to consolidate its achievements.
“Rivers State is at a pivotal stage where continuity will allow for the completion of ongoing initiatives and the deepening of development gains. Supporting Governor Fubara for a second term is, therefore, a decision in the best interest of the people,” the statement said.
In addition to its call on the APC leadership, the group reaffirmed its support for President Tinubu, expressing confidence in his administration’s broader economic and governance reforms.
The APC group urged Nigerians to remain supportive of efforts aimed at stabilising the economy and strengthening public institutions.
“We reiterate our endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to national development. With sustained support, the administration can consolidate its reform agenda for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Dr Salam added.
The APC National Vanguard concluded by calling on political actors to prioritise development and public interest over partisan divides, insisting that governance should always be guided by performance and accountability.
“Where leadership demonstrates prudence, delivers development, and remains focused on the welfare of the people, it deserves continuity. This is the position we have reached after a careful and independent assessment of Rivers State,” the statement added.
*Renewed Hope Ambassadors Step Into the Next Phase
Fresh from the successful APC 2026 National Convention, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors National, Zonal, and State leadership gathered in Abuja over the weekend, for its fourth strategic meeting, setting the tone for nationwide grassroots activation ahead of 2027.
Chaired by Governor Hope Uzodinma (Imo State) the Director General and National Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, alongside Deputy Director-General, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State as Secretary, the session reinforced one clear direction: One Party. One Message. One Mobilization whilst also laying out a strategic roadmap for the activation of the network across all communities in Nigeria.
Backed by the strength of 31 APC-led states, the Renewed Hope Agenda is taking Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message of progress and reform to every corner of Nigeria.
From bold economic restructuring to initiatives like NELFUND, the increase in the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, and strategic investments in critical sectors, including PNiCGI, the mission remains clear: helping Nigerians understand both the purpose and the progress of the Renewed Hope vision.
This is coordination at scale. This is grassroots engagement with purpose. This is the next phase of Renewed Hope with One Party, One Message, and One Mobilisation framework
#RenewedHopeAmbassadors #APC #WeAreAPC
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