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When Power Plays Collide with Process: Lessons from Lagos’ Speakership Saga of 2025
When Power Plays Collide with Process: Lessons from Lagos’ Speakership Saga of 2025
By Dave Agboola
Lagos politics has never been short of spectacle, but the drama that unfolded on January 13, 2025, transcended mere headlines. It became a profound stress test for democratic norms and institutional discipline in Nigeria’s most influential state.
On that day, while Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, was reportedly returning from the United States, the Assembly triggered a political earthquake: his removal as Speaker after nearly a decade in office. The allegations were sweeping—financial impropriety, abuse of office, and autocratic leadership. In his absence, the House installed Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, making history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos Assembly. Yet, history, it soon became clear, was not prepared to be rewritten so abruptly.
The impeachment was hailed by its architects as a triumph of accountability. However, the manner of its execution raised unsettling questions. Reports of a “fake mace,” combined with heavy police presence within the Assembly complex, gave the episode the unsettling air of a coup rather than a constitutionally grounded legislative action. Obasa would later allege that the chamber was forcibly accessed and that his loyalists were intimidated. Beneath the surface, murmurs of deep-seated party intrigue grew louder. His rumored gubernatorial ambitions for 2027 had reportedly unsettled power blocs within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), casting the impeachment as a pre-emptive move in a broader succession chess game.
For weeks, Lagos politics hovered dangerously close to paralysis. Meranda’s speakership lasted just 49 days before she resigned, citing the need to restore peace and unity within the House. Her exit cleared the path for Obasa’s return, but the decisive intervention came from the judiciary. On April 16, 2025, the Lagos High Court declared the January 13 proceedings unconstitutional, null, and void. Justice Yetunde Pinheiro’s ruling was unambiguous: the Assembly had violated its own Standing Orders and the Constitution. Crucially, the court did not adjudicate on the substance of the allegations; it focused squarely on procedure. In a constitutional democracy, the means are as consequential as the ends.
Obasa’s reinstatement was therefore more than a personal vindication—it was an institutional reaffirmation. It underscored the judiciary’s role as a vital check on legislative excess and reinforced the principle that numerical strength cannot override procedural legality. The episode also highlighted the stabilising power of political mediation, as party elders intervened to prevent a prolonged institutional crisis, reminding all stakeholders that dialogue remains indispensable even amid constitutional confrontation.
Perhaps the most striking element of this saga is Obasa’s resilience. Few political figures could endure removal in absentia, relentless public scrutiny, and a barrage of allegations without resorting to inflammatory rhetoric or extra-institutional tactics. Obasa did neither. Instead, he chose the courts over chaos, patience over provocation. That decision alone speaks volumes about his mental strength and strategic discipline.
Beyond legal vindication, his ability to reclaim leadership after such a bruising episode reflects uncommon psychological stamina. For nearly three months, he operated under intense pressure, with his reputation and political future hanging in the balance. Many would have buckled under such weight. Obasa did not. He absorbed the pressure, trusted the system, and ultimately emerged strengthened—sending a powerful message that resilience, not reaction, is the true currency of political survival.
Whatever one’s view of Obasa, his endurance through this storm is undeniable. To be removed in absentia, navigate a fractured legislature, and emerge vindicated by the courts requires not only political capital but composure and faith in democratic institutions. Lagos, in the end, learned a lesson that should resonate far beyond its borders: power is transient, but process is permanent. When the gavel falls, it must fall within the bounds of law—because that is the only assurance that democracy will outlive its actors.
Agboola is the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly.
PROPHET KINGSLEY AITAFO MARKS BIRTHDAY WITH MESSAGE OF FAITH, SERVICE
LAGOS, NIGERIA — Renowned cleric, Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, is being celebrated today by followers, associates, and members of the Christian community as he marks his birthday, with tributes pouring in to honor his spiritual impact and years of dedicated service.
The birthday of the respected prophet has become more than a personal milestone, as admirers describe it as a moment to reflect on a life devoted to faith, leadership, and humanitarian outreach.
Known for his passionate teachings and prophetic ministry, Aitafo has built a reputation as a voice of hope to many within and beyond Nigeria.
Close associates say the cleric’s journey has been defined by unwavering commitment to spiritual growth and the upliftment of lives. Through his ministry, he has continued to emphasize prayer, discipline, and a deep connection with God as pathways to personal transformation.
In commemoration of the occasion, special prayers and goodwill messages have been organized by followers across different platforms, many of whom credit his teachings for inspiring positive change in their lives.
“His life is a testimony of grace and dedication,” one associate noted. “He has remained steadfast in his calling, impacting countless lives with messages of faith and encouragement.”
Observers also highlight his role in mentoring young believers and providing spiritual guidance in challenging times, describing him as a leader whose influence extends beyond the pulpit.
As he celebrates another year, well-wishers have continued to pray for greater strength, wisdom, and expansion of his ministry, expressing confidence that his influence will continue to grow in the years ahead.
Today’s celebration stands not only as a birthday tribute, but as a recognition of a life many say has been committed to service, faith, and the advancement of the gospel.
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BURATAI HAILED AS ‘FRONTLINE GENERAL’ AS PRAISE TRAILS MILITARY, DIPLOMATIC SERVICE
BURATAI HAILED AS ‘FRONTLINE GENERAL’ AS PRAISE TRAILS MILITARY, DIPLOMATIC SERVICE
ABUJA — Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai (Rtd), has been described as a “frontline general” whose leadership redefined military command during Nigeria’s prolonged battle against insurgency.
The commendation, contained in a statement by KPUGHUR Sunday Christopher, highlighted Buratai’s direct involvement in combat theatres, noting that his decision to lead from the front distinguished him from many of his contemporaries.
According to the statement, the retired army chief’s presence in conflict zones at critical moments of the war effort underscored his commitment to national security and territorial integrity.
“He was not a distant commander. He was present where it mattered most,” the statement said.
The tribute also emphasized Buratai’s reputation as a detribalized leader, stressing his consistent advocacy for unity and peaceful coexistence across Nigeria’s diverse population.
Observers note that his tenure coincided with some of the country’s most challenging security periods, during which the military recorded significant operational strides against insurgent groups.
Beyond his military career, Buratai’s subsequent diplomatic engagement was also cited as evidence of his versatility in national service.
The statement concluded that his continued involvement in national discourse after retirement reflects a sustained commitment to Nigeria’s progress, describing him as “a statesman whose service transcends uniform.”
celebrity radar - gossips
Prophet Kingsley Aitafo to Mark Birthday with Global Prayer Session, Honours Spiritual Fathers
Prophet Kingsley Aitafo to Mark Birthday with Global Prayer Session, Honours Spiritual Fathers
Renowned cleric, Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, is set to mark his birthday on March 23 with a global prayer session, offering what he described as a “spiritual gift” to followers across the world.
In a departure from conventional birthday celebrations, the prophet announced a Special Live Prayer Session scheduled to hold from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (Nigeria time). The one-hour intercession is expected to draw participants from various countries, focusing on thanksgiving and collective prayers.
According to him, the initiative is aimed at fostering spiritual reflection and unity among believers, rather than personal festivities.
Ahead of the event, Prophet Aitafo paid tribute to his spiritual mentors, acknowledging the profound influence of Prophet and Founder of Celestial church of Christ, Prophet Samuel Bilehou Joseph Oshoffa and Bishop David Olaniyi Oyedepo on his ministerial journey.
He noted that the legacies and “exploits in ministry” of the revered clerics have continually inspired him to pursue greater depth, purpose, and impact in his calling.
The upcoming prayer session is expected to be streamed live across his ministry’s platforms, with followers encouraged to join in the global moment of intercession.
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