The recent impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa, former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has intensified divisions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos. As opposition parties express readiness to welcome Obasa should he leave the ruling party, the political landscape in the state is becoming increasingly contentious.
Obasa was removed on January 13, 2025, following allegations of misconduct and financial misappropriation. This decision has ignited divergent reactions among members of the APC’s Governance Advisory Council, the party’s key decision-making body in the state.
Tensions are palpable, particularly after Senator Anthony Adefuye and Chief Muraina Taiwo, two GAC members who opposed Obasa’s removal, faced criticism from Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, who labeled their objections as “childish and inconsequential.”
Adefuye, in a recent interview, condemned the impeachment process, while Taiwo termed the lawmakers’ actions illegal, reflecting a deep divide within the group. “We will defer to our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to resolve the crisis,” Taiwo added, indicating that the GAC is split on this critical issue.
The Lagos State House of Assembly stated that Obasa is expected to return before any further action or potential investigation is determined. At present, it remains unclear if he has appeared before the House, as officials have not responded to inquiries about his status.
In light of the ongoing turmoil, opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party, are keen to capitalize on the discord within the APC. PDP Vice Chairman Benedict Tai indicated that should Obasa decide to defect, the party would ensure robust checks are in place to maintain integrity and stability.
“The current situation in Lagos is favorable for the PDP, provided we learn from our mistakes and take advantage of their shortcomings,” Tai remarked, hinting at a potential opportunity for the party amidst APC’s internal strife.
Similarly, Labour Party Chairman Pastor Dayo Ekong expressed openness to integrating Obasa if he aligns with the party’s vision. “Our party is open to everyone. However, there are no automatic rights; all candidates will undergo the primaries to demonstrate their popularity and commitment,” Ekong explained, reinforcing the notion of fair political processes regardless of an individual’s past status.
As the situation unfolds, the dynamics within Lagos politics remain fluid, with the APC facing challenges from both within and outside its ranks. The coming weeks will reveal how these developments will shape the political landscape ahead of the 2027 governorship elections.
