Claims that President Bola Tinubu has ordered the reinstatement of former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, have been dismissed as “fake news”, sources within the state government and legislature have confirmed.
Obasa was removed from office on January 13, 2025, after 37 members of the Assembly voted him out over allegations of misconduct, misappropriation of funds, breach of public trust, and misuse of power.
He was subsequently replaced by Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, the first female Speaker of the Assembly.
A senior legislative aide, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that reports suggesting the President’s intervention were part of a “deliberate misinformation campaign” aimed at destabilising the House.
“There is no directive from the Presidency to reinstate Obasa. This is merely a distraction orchestrated by those who refuse to accept the reality of the new leadership,” the source stated.
Another government official close to Speaker Meranda confirmed that she had received endorsements from key political figures, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), and past Assembly members from the 1st to the 9th Assembly.
“Since her election, Speaker Meranda has received widespread support. The idea that her mandate is being reversed is baseless,” the official added.
Political analysts have weighed in on the controversy, with some suggesting that the circulation of false reports could be a ploy by Obasa’s allies to pressure the political establishment into reconsidering his removal.
Also a source described the situation as “a classic case of political desperation.”
“This is not the first time we are seeing attempts to manipulate public perception through fake news. The bigger question is: Will this tactic work, or is it just an act of a sore loser?” he asked.
Despite the speculations, Speaker Meranda has continued her legislative duties, with insiders indicating that the House remains united behind her leadership.
As political observers monitor developments, questions remain on whether Obasa’s camp will escalate its efforts or accept the decision of the House.
“Where do we go from here? What should Lagosians expect next?” a source in the Assembly mused.