Another GAC Member Condemns Obasa’s Removal as Lagos Speaker

• GAC member Muraina Taiwo criticizes Obasa’s removal as unlawful, highlighting divisions within the APC following allegations of misconduct against him
• Obasa insists he remains Speaker, rejecting the decision made during his absence, while tensions rise among party leaders over the issue

A fresh controversy has emerged within the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State following the removal of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the state House of Assembly.

Chief Muraina A. Taiwo, a GAC member, has criticized the decision, calling it unlawful and a sign of disrespect for party leadership.

Obasa was removed on January 13 while he was out of the country. Lawmakers accused him of gross misconduct and abuse of office. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda of Apapa Constituency 1 was appointed as his replacement.

On his return last Saturday, Obasa rejected the decision, insisting he remains Speaker until due process is followed.

His removal has sparked divisions within the GAC, the highest decision-making body of Lagos APC. Senator Anthony Adefuye supported Obasa, labeling the removal illegal. “He was removed through a faulty process. I agree with him,” Adefuye stated in an earlier interview.

However, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro dismissed Adefuye’s remarks, calling them “childish and inconsequential.” He criticized Adefuye for making public statements on sensitive party matters. “Leaders should handle serious issues internally rather than rushing to the press,” Obanikoro added.

GAC Secretary Mutiu Are played down the internal dispute, calling it a “family affair” that would be settled within the party.

Despite this, tensions persist. Chief Taiwo has now voiced his opposition, insisting the removal was unconstitutional. He condemned the move in a statement titled My Take on the Ongoing Imbroglio at Lagos House of Assembly.

“The lawmakers’ action is illegal. It shows complete disregard for leadership. The GAC is divided, but we will defer to our de facto leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to resolve the crisis,” Taiwo stated.

With growing tensions, all eyes are now on Tinubu to mediate and restore unity within the party.