President Bola Tinubu has reportedly instructed lawmakers in the Lagos State House of Assembly to reinstate Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, despite his impeachment over corruption allegations.
According to Peoples Gazette, the directive has sparked tension among the lawmakers.
Obasa was removed on January 13 after reports emerged that he had mismanaged billions in public funds, particularly through fraudulent procurement deals.
Following his impeachment, Lasbat Mojisola Meranda was sworn in as the new Speaker, backed by the majority of lawmakers.
However, Obasa has refused to vacate the official Speaker’s Lodge and continues to assert his authority.
Sources familiar with the situation told Peoples Gazette that Tinubu’s intervention is aimed at preventing further divisions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos.
He reportedly told key political figures that allowing Obasa’s impeachment to stand could have serious consequences for the party’s control in the state.
Lawmakers have been told that Obasa will only serve for a short period before resigning on his own terms.
Despite Tinubu’s influence, many legislators are uneasy about the decision.
Some argued that reinstating Obasa would undermine their authority and set a dangerous precedent.
Those who played a key role in his removal are worried about retaliation, with one source describing the situation as “pacifying a snake after cutting off its head.”
To secure full compliance, Tinubu has summoned lawmakers to Abuja for a meeting on Monday.
Some lawmakers have already agreed to support the reinstatement, fearing the consequences of defying the president, who also leads the APC.
Others, however, are still resistant but may face pressure during the Abuja talks.
Meanwhile, Obasa has maintained control of the Speaker’s Lodge despite his removal.
Reports indicate that Meranda, the new Speaker, has not been able to take full possession of the residence.
Obasa allegedly returned from the United States after his impeachment and moved straight into the lodge, refusing to leave.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also reportedly met with Obasa on Saturday at the State House in Marina to discuss his return.
Although details of their conversation remain unclear, insiders told Peoples Gazette that the meeting was part of the final steps to reinstate him.
His return could be confirmed as early as next week.
