Tinubu Holds Crucial Closed-Door Meeting with Lagos Lawmakers Amid Political Tensions

President Bola Tinubu convened a closed-door meeting on March 12, 2025, with the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and other assembly members at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The gathering, which commenced at approximately 2:50 pm, was shrouded in confidentiality, leaving many speculating about its agenda.

The backdrop to this meeting is the recent turbulence within the Lagos State House of Assembly. On January 13, 2025, Obasa was impeached by 32 out of the 40 assembly members, citing allegations of corruption and highhandedness. This upheaval led to the election of Rt. Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda as the new Speaker.

In the aftermath of the impeachment, President Tinubu expressed his dissatisfaction with the manner in which the process was conducted, likening it to a coup. He emphasized the importance of due process and internal cohesion within the party.  Subsequent interventions by political stakeholders, including the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), facilitated Obasa’s reinstatement on March 3, 2025.

Despite his reinstatement, tensions within the assembly have persisted. Reports indicate that some lawmakers have denied participating in any reconciliation meetings with Obasa, highlighting ongoing grievances. One lawmaker noted, “We were all kept waiting, and when he arrived, there was no apology for the late commencement of the meeting.” This sentiment underscores the fragile unity within the assembly.

The closed-door session with President Tinubu aimed to address these lingering issues and restore harmony within the legislative body. Emerging from the meeting around 4:30 pm, the lawmakers were heard chanting, “On your mandate, we shall stand,” reaffirming their allegiance to the President. However, Obasa remained reticent, declining to engage with the press.

The President’s involvement signifies the gravity of the situation and the necessity for unity within the state’s leadership. As Lagos State continues to navigate its political landscape, the outcomes of such high-level engagements will be pivotal in shaping its governance and ensuring stability.

In related developments, the Lagos State House of Assembly had previously passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Obasa on November 11, 2024, commending his leadership and contributions to the state’s legislative progress.  This earlier endorsement contrasts with the subsequent impeachment saga, highlighting the dynamic nature of political alliances and sentiments within the assembly.

As the situation unfolds, stakeholders and observers alike await concrete resolutions that will foster collaboration and effective governance in Lagos State.