By Dansu Peter The once-dismissed speculation about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention in the impeachment saga of former Lagos Stat...
By Dansu Peter
In what appears to be a 'plea bargain' designed to shield Obasa's political future and maintain party unity, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) has reportedly struck a deal: Obasa will step down from the speakership in exchange for the Lagos West senatorial ticket in the 2027 elections. This move, which underscores Obasa's status as an 'UNTOUCHABLE' figure in Lagos politics, also includes plans to remove his replacement, Lasbat Meranda, in a strategic realignment of power within the Assembly.
PG reported that sources familiar with the discussions, the GAC reached this decision during a high-stakes meeting in Marina, Lagos, on Monday. The session, convened to address the growing rift within the state legislature, sought to reconcile lawmakers who resisted Obasa’s return despite a direct reinstatement order from President Tinubu.
The GAC, an influential but unofficial political body originally formed by Tinubu to steer Lagos politics, currently comprises 33 members who play a crucial role in determining leadership positions, including gubernatorial and legislative seats. Amid growing tensions, lawmakers reportedly expressed fears that reinstating Obasa as speaker could deepen divisions within the Lagos APC, prompting the council to push for the Senate ticket compromise.
“Returning Obasa as the speaker will further divide the party,” a source disclosed. “We accept that Mojisola Meranda should go, but for peace and unity, Obasa should take the Senate seat in the next election while we appoint another speaker.”
Despite Tinubu's directive, lawmakers have remained reluctant to reinstate Obasa, fearing possible political reprisals. The proposed arrangement aims to defuse the crisis by installing a neutral figure as speaker while ensuring Obasa remains politically relevant with a clear pathway to the Senate, PG report says
The GAC also justified Meranda's removal by citing her ties to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's Apapa I constituency, arguing that her continued leadership could disrupt the state's political balance. Sources indicate that six potential replacements have already been shortlisted.
Meanwhile, Obasa remains firm in his refusal to vacate the speaker’s lodge, signaling his unwillingness to relinquish power without firm guarantees. His recent meeting with Governor Sanwo-Olu suggests that negotiations are ongoing, with a resolution expected soon.
In a bid to finalize the arrangement, some GAC members have reportedly traveled to Abuja to engage President Tinubu directly on the matter. "Whatever the president decides will be final," a source emphasized, underscoring the weight of Tinubu's influence in the unfolding political chess game.
Excerpted from People's Gazette
No comments