Ola Akinwunmi
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has denied any involvement in the impeachment of the former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.
In a dramatic turn of events, Obasa, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, was impeached on Monday amidst allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and financial misappropriation. The impeachment has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu swiftly distancing himself from the development on Tuesday.
According to Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, the impeachment was a “strict legislative affair” that had nothing to do with the governor or the state government. Akosile emphasized the separation of powers in the constitution, stating that the Assembly handled the matter independently.
However, sources close to the matter suggest that Obasa’s impeachment may be linked to his rumored gubernatorial ambition for 2027, which could have unsettled some powerful figures within the state’s ruling party. Obasa has denied any plans to run for governor, but his actions, including the formation of a political support group, have raised eyebrows.
The impeachment has also brought to light allegations of financial misappropriation against Obasa, including a petition filed with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accusing him of spending N17 billion to fix a gate leading to the Assembly.
As the drama unfolds, Lagos residents are left wondering what’s next for the state’s politics. One thing is certain, however: Obasa’s impeachment marks a significant shift in the state’s power dynamics.
