By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
LAGOS — Reports alleging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered the Lagos State House of Assembly to reinstate its impeached Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, have been dismissed as false by lawmakers and political stakeholders.
The claim, initially reported by People Gazette and widely circulated on social media, suggested that Tinubu had intervened to overturn Obasa’s removal. However, a member of the Assembly, who spoke on condition of anonymity, refuted the report, describing it as “fake news” and urging the public to disregard it.
“The president has not given any directive regarding the reinstatement of the former Speaker. The House followed due process in reaching its decision, and any claims of external interference are baseless,” the lawmaker stated.
Obasa’s Impeachment and Political Tensions
Obasa was removed from office on January 13, 2025, by a two-thirds majority of the Assembly over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. The impeachment followed intense deliberations and months of internal political wrangling within the House.
Following his removal, Obasa reportedly sought the intervention of President Tinubu to overturn the decision. In a move that has further heightened tensions, the embattled politician has refused to vacate the Speaker’s Lodge, prompting speculation about his next political move.
Public Misinformation and Political Reactions
While some political observers believe Obasa’s refusal to leave the Lodge signals his determination to fight for reinstatement, others see it as a strategic move to maintain political relevance. Meanwhile, the spread of conflicting reports has raised concerns over the role of misinformation in Nigeria’s political discourse.
Political analysts have warned against the dangers of unverified news, emphasizing the need for credible journalism. A senior political commentator, speaking to The Merit Newspaper, urged media houses to fact-check reports before publication.
“Unverified reports can create unnecessary tension. While the political situation in Lagos remains fluid, the public must rely on credible sources to understand the facts,” he said.
What Next for Lagos Politics?
With Obasa’s impeachment setting off political realignments within the Lagos Assembly, it remains to be seen whether he will seek legal redress or negotiate his way back into the system. Meanwhile, the Assembly is expected to proceed with governance under new leadership, despite external pressures.
As the controversy unfolds, the spotlight remains on the Lagos political landscape, with observers closely monitoring whether the former Speaker will accept his fate or escalate the battle for reinstatement.
