President Bola Tinubu has urged Lagos lawmakers to reinstate Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker, weeks after his impeachment over corruption and ab¥se of office, sources told Peoples Gazette.
Tinubu reportedly argued that the political cost of Obasa’s removal outweighs any punitive measures. A senior Lagos politician disclosed that Tinubu assured lawmakers Obasa would only return briefly before resigning on his terms. “We have agreed to give him a soft landing due to the political consequences,” the source said.
However, some lawmakers remain wary, fearing retaliation. “Bringing him back is like pacifying a snake after sev£ring its head,” one legislator warned. Despite opposition, Tinubu has called a meeting in Abuja to consolidate support for Obasa’s return.
Obasa was impeached on January 13 after lawmakers uncovered, via The Gazette, his alleged misappropriation of procurement funds. Lasbat Mojisola Meranda replaced him but has struggled to assert control, with Obasa refusing to vacate the Speaker’s Lodge in Ikeja G.R.A. Upon returning from the U.S., he dismissed his removal as illegal and vowed to remain in office.
Sources say First Lady Remi Tinubu may have influenced the push for his return, as she reportedly shielded him from an EFCC arrest while allowing an investigation into his finances to proceed.
Lawmakers, though frustrated, may feel compelled to comply, given Tinubu’s dominance over Lagos politics. “Some are angry at being h¥miliated but won’t resist the president,” a source said.
Obasa also met Governor Jide Sanwo-Olu over the weekend to finalize his reinstatement, which could happen as early as next week.
