The recent impeachment of former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, has intensified divisions within the state’s All Progressives Congress (APC). Opposition parties have expressed their willingness to welcome Obasa should he choose to leave the ruling party.
Obasa was removed from his position on January 13, 2025, by a majority vote of lawmakers citing allegations of misconduct and financial misappropriation. This action has led to differing opinions among members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the APC’s highest decision-making body in Lagos.
Senator Anthony Adefuye and Chief Muraina Taiwo, both GAC members, have criticized the process leading to Obasa’s removal, describing it as illegal and disrespectful to party leadership. In contrast, fellow GAC member Senator Musiliu Obanikoro dismissed their criticisms as “childish and inconsequential,” urging party leaders to avoid making hasty statements on the matter.
The Lagos State House of Assembly has indicated that it expects Obasa to return to the House before deciding on further actions, which may include a potential probe. As of now, it remains unclear whether Obasa has complied, as Assembly spokesperson Olukayode Ogundipe has not provided updates.
Meanwhile, opposition parties in Lagos have expressed their readiness to accept Obasa if he opts to leave the APC amid the ongoing turmoil. Benedict Tai, Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos, stated that the party would implement appropriate checks and balances should Obasa join their ranks. He emphasized the need to ensure that any new member aligns with the party’s values and does not disrupt its cohesion.
Similarly, Pastor Dayo Ekong, Chairman of the Labour Party (LP) in Lagos, affirmed that the party is open to all, including Obasa, provided that his interests align with the LP’s vision and principles. She clarified that there are no automatic rights or tickets within the party; all members, regardless of status, are expected to participate in primaries to test their popularity.
These developments highlight the shifting political landscape in Lagos State, as internal conflicts within the APC present opportunities for opposition parties to strengthen their positions.
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