- Political tensions in Lagos rose as a rumoured report about President Tinubu’s involvement in the Obasa saga sparked confusion and controversy
- The report claiming presidential intervention in Obasa’s reinstatement was debunked as fake news by political sources
- Lagos lawmakers continued to support Princess Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the Speaker, dismissing the false reports
A report claiming that President Bola Tinubu had directed members of the Lagos State House of Assembly to reinstate Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, was dismissed as "fake news" by political sources.
The false report which circulated on Sunday, February 2 was widely shared online and sparked public controversy.
Report about Obasa’s possible reinstatement dismissed
A lawmaker, who preferred anonymity, in reaction to the report, said, “This is nothing but fake news based on the fact that she has met with The President, Mr Governor, The GAC and Past members from the 1st Assembly to the 9th Assembly, among many others.”
Also, an aide to Meranda, who requested to remain unnamed, refrained from making an official statement, noting that the new Speaker was dedicated to the upcoming tasks and would not be distracted by “cheap talks and mere speculations to cause confusion over leadership change of the assembly.”
According to the circulated report, President Tinubu allegedly pressured lawmakers to reinstate Obasa, who was removed three weeks earlier.
The report further claimed that Tinubu instructed the lawmakers to prepare for Obasa’s return, with the expectation that he would step down on his own terms after a brief period.
A senior Lagos politician was quoted as saying, “The president said Obasa will spend only a short time before resigning on his terms,” according to the report.
The Lagos State House of Assembly has attracted attention since January 13, following the removal of Obasa and the appointment of Princess Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker.
Lawmakers stand behind Meranda
Obasa was ousted by 32 of the 40 members of the Assembly, who cited his leadership failures, including accusations of corruption, misappropriation of funds, abuse of office, and highhandedness.
“The circulation of the fake news has piqued the interest of many political observers, enthusiasts and citizens as they keep asking in one voice — “Is Obasa so important that he is being protected from above or are these just media stunts of a sore loser.?”
“Lagos lawmakers are solidly behind the leadership of Rt Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, who was constitutionally elected,” the lawmaker, who preferred anonymity in reaction to the report stated.
DSS allegedly drills Lagos lawmakers over Obasa's impeachment
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Department of State Services questioned several Lagos lawmakers regarding the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
According to the report, Lagos lawmakers reaffirmed the legitimacy of Obasa's removal, emphasising that it followed a democratic process in line with Nigeria's constitution and relevant laws.