Political Tensions Exposed: Tinubu Reveals Why He Reinstated Obasa, Lays Blame On Powerful Governor

Sources who attended a meeting between Tinubu and Lagos lawmakers on Wednesday told SaharaReporters that the President expressed concern over the extent of Sanwo-Olu’s involvement in the impeachment process. A source stated that Tinubu was troubled by the executive branch’s significant role in determining who should lead the Assembly.

At the meeting, Tinubu allegedly explained that the reason Obasa was reinstated was due to the evident influence of the Lagos executive, led by Sanwo-Olu, in the Speaker’s removal. He found it disturbing that the executive would have a stake in choosing the Speaker, a position meant to be determined within the legislature.

The meeting, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was attended by Obasa, Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, and other lawmakers. The crisis began on January 13 when Obasa was impeached over allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement. Initially, lawmakers celebrated his removal as a victory for accountability. However, behind-the-scenes pressure from APC leaders, supported by Tinubu, led to Obasa’s controversial reinstatement on March 3.

Meranda, who briefly served as Speaker after Obasa’s removal, was forced to step down under pressure from party leaders and was later reassigned to the Deputy Speaker role. Many lawmakers, however, remain displeased with what they view as Tinubu’s interference.

During the meeting, Tinubu reportedly reprimanded Obasa for his habitual lateness. “The Speaker was criticized for always arriving late. The President spent the first 10 minutes scolding him,” a source revealed.

After hearing from both sides, Tinubu urged lawmakers to accept Obasa’s return as Speaker and instructed him to withdraw his court cases challenging the impeachment. He also directed that all principal officers and committee chairmen remain in their positions. However, the issue of the House Clerk remains unresolved, with lawmakers divided between former Clerk Olalekan Onafeko, who is supported by Obasa, and current Clerk Taiwo.