By Aderonke Adetife
To many, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa is simply the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. However, for those familiar with the inner workings of the legislative arm of Lagos State, Obasa is seen as a self-styled emperor—a mini-god who thrives on dictatorial tendencies and autocratic leadership, ruling with an iron fist and a “know-it-all” disposition.
For years, Obasa capitalized on his now-diminished relationship with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consolidate power, creating an atmosphere of fear among Lagos legislators. This strategy has deprived Assembly members of the benefits and privileges traditionally associated with their roles. Under Obasa’s leadership, lawmakers have been reduced to mere puppets, reminiscent of primary school pupils dutifully following the headmaster’s orders, regardless of the Speaker’s excesses and overreach.
Notably, since the commencement of the 10th Assembly, legislators have been denied office vehicles and other administrative entitlements. These benefits have instead been tied to controversial and often questionable legislative actions, such as harassing Lagos residents over land disputes, influencing judicial rulings, and coercing local government chairpersons into submission. Strikingly, even these limited perks are reserved for a select few lawmakers who demonstrate “nuisance value” in advancing Obasa’s agenda.
In Agege, Obasa is said to have empowered a notorious hoodlum to terrorize landowners, forcing them to relinquish their properties. In one prominent land case, when public outcry led to the Assembly summoning the parties involved, Obasa reportedly intimidated the rightful landowners into not appearing before the committee. Their absence allowed him to manipulate the case in favour of his ally.
Similarly, in Awoyaya, another legislator, allegedly acting on Obasa’s instructions, maintains a firm grip over disputed land, reflecting the deep-rooted culture of impunity fostered under Obasa’s leadership.
The Lagos State House of Assembly, once a symbol of legislative integrity, has been reduced to a mere shadow of its former self—a mockery of democracy. Many argue that Lagos has never seen such a low point in legislative governance.
In the course of investigating the legislators’ sentiments about Obasa’s leadership, it became evident that his erstwhile close ties with President Bola Tinubu had long served as a shield. Lawmakers recall the infamous feud between Obasa and Hon. Muyiwa Jimoh, the former Deputy Majority Leader in the 9th Assembly. Despite Muyiwa’s valid grievances, Obasa emerged victorious, solidifying his dominance and silencing potential dissent.
Today, however, Obasa’s influence has waned significantly, with even his staunchest allies acknowledging his reduced clout. Still, most lawmakers remain cautious, awaiting a clearer signal before challenging his authority. But the cracks are becoming impossible to ignore, and whispers of rebellion are growing louder.
It appears that the days of Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly are numbered. The emperor’s reign may soon come to an end, and with it, an opportunity for the assembly to reclaim its dignity and purpose.
Aderonke Adetife, a member of the All Progressives Congress, wrote this piece from Oko-Oba, Agege.
