Just In: Speaker Obasa Debunks Allegation Of Spending N17b On Assembly Gate

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Thursday described the allegation that the House spent N17 billion on the fixing of a gate as spurious and funny.

A self-proclaimed group, Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, had accused the Assembly of spending the amount to construct a gate. The group also sought investigation of the claim.

Speaking at plenary, Dr. Obasa said the allegation stemmed from the fear of some people over 2027 which is still more than two years away.

Obasa further debunked the claim that the House spent N200 million on its recently organised 22nd thanksgiving service for staff.

“It is so funny. How much is the allocation of the Assembly in the whole year that we will decide to spend N17 billion on a gate? They even claimed that we expended 200 million on thanksgiving that did not hold.

“We are aware that at a period like this when we are approaching elections in 2027, we should expect such things. I think some people are scared and I don’t know why.

“This House did not and has not embarked on any such project. We are not that reckless. We had our thanksgiving last Friday and dignitaries from various parts of the State attended it,” the Speaker said.

Addressing further claims by the group about the alleged relationship between him and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, the Speaker denied attending the latter’s screening and confirmation by the National Assembly.

“They said that I was at the National Assembly when they were confirming the EFCC chairman. I want to believe that there are CCTV cameras at the National Assembly to identify those who attended the event. The press must have written about it too. So the group should do more to confirm if I was there.

“This is just to deny the allegations in the interest of the public and not the writers because the writers are not those we should be joining words with,” the Speaker said.

Earlier, the House, through its spokesperson, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, had addressed the allegations noting that the Assembly bases its activities on integrity, transparency and accountability.

“It is ludicrous the claim about constituency intervention funds and constituency project funds and their handling by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko as claimed by the group.

“One would have expected a self-acclaimed anti-corruption crusading group to do its groundwork before jumping across the fence with conviction that it hit a jackpot to malign an institution of repute in the name of politics.

“Simply put, the Lagos State House of Assembly does not have any such funds. The Assembly does not embark on constituency projects. Instead, once every year, the House holds stakeholders’ meetings simultaneously across the state where constituents have the opportunity to tell the lawmakers their expectations and make requests for the betterment of the state.

“These requests and expectations are compiled and sent to the executive arm of government for consideration as inputs in subsequent budgets. If this is what the group takes as constituency intervention or project funds, we are sure this explanation has given the required education, moreover, it is common knowledge that it is the responsibility of the Executive arm to execute such projects,” the earlier statement by Ogundipe read.

Tinubu Working To Bring Smiles To Nigeria, Obasa Says

– as Methodist Archbishop advocates for Muslim governor in 2027

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has urged Nigerians not to despair as the administration of President Bola Tinubu is working to resolve the country’s challenges.

“The outgoing year is indeed a challenging one, especially considering the economic situation of the country. Nevertheless, we have solace in the fact that the government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR is not leaving any stone unturned to bring us to our promised land.

“Mr. President is busy doing everything possible to put smiles on our faces. Trust me, succour is coming. I urge us to keep the hope alive,” Dr. Obasa said during the Assembly’s 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Service with the theme: ‘The Voice Of Mercy’.

At the event which had officials from the various arms of the state government, members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), traditional rulers and guest preachers, the Speaker urged Nigerians to enter 2025 with renewed passion and vigour.

Quoting from various portions of the Bible, Dr. Obasa said the country had reasons to thank God for His mercies, love and faithfulness.

“In times like these, when the world can seem overwhelming and uncertain, it is crucial to remember the enduring message of mercy and grace that is ever-present in our lives. Indeed, it is through God’s mercy that we find strength, solace, and renewal.

“May we acknowledge God’s sovereignty and mercy in our lives, recognising that our blessings and successes are not solely the result of our efforts, but rather a manifestation of God’s mercy and compassion,” he said while urging citizens to also learn to show mercy to one another.

In his sermon, Most Rev. Isaac Ayo Olawuyi, Archbishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria (Lagos), urged Nigerians to be merciful to one another in line with God’s instruction.

“When the mercy of God is upon you, all protocols are be broken. All things are possible by the mercies of God. We receive forgiveness of our sins from Him by His mercies. The nation needs God’s mercy and it is by His mercy that we can overcome our predicaments and our shortcomings.

“How many people have you helped and taken care of? Go and show love and mercy,” he said.

He praised the Speaker for his leadership and collaboration with the other arms of government saying these have kept the state strong.

“You have been a true and sensitive leader with a big heart. You have proved yourself worthy. We pray that God will continue to use you to make us smile in Lagos and also grant you your heart desires,” he said while commending President Tinubu for the steps he has taken so far.

The Archbishop ended his sermon with an advocacy for a Muslim as the governor of Lagos in 2027 arguing that this was in the spirit of religious tolerance.

“I also want to add that we have consideration for religious inclination in Lagos State. It would be 12 years in 2027 that we have been in the system together and we have been having Christians as governors.

“Now, it’s time to give our Muslim brothers a chance to govern us in Lagos State. We want to pray that when it’s time for the election, it would be a time for us to elect who will govern us in Lagos State effectively,” he said.

How Sports Can Help Boost Nigeria’s Greatness – Obasa

– commissioner says govt passionate about youth

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has reiterated the importance and benefits of sports to Nigeria.

According to Dr. Obasa, sports is an area that should not be downplayed as it has the capacity to make the country greater, enrich the youth and improve businesses across the country.

The Speaker made the remark on Friday evening at the opening of the second edition of the Obasa Games 2024, a platform through which the organisers seek to further unite the youth in Lagos.

Commending Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa, chairman of Kings Sports International and organiser of the Obasa Games, the Speaker noted that emerging developments in sports prompted the Lagos Assembly’s amendment of the State’s Sports Commission Law to accommodate new areas that are beneficial to the youth.

“I am passionate about football and I have always been a sportsman myself. Sports is an advantage to us in this state and the nation and I am reiterating that it is the future of our youth. Go anywhere in the world; sports has become a huge business,” he said.

Obasa further stressed that sports can help combat crimes and increase youth engagement in activities that boost national growth and development.

“We have realised that government alone cannot provide employment. We have also realised that because of the peculiarities of our nation as well as our advantage in terms of population, we can generate businesses out of sports to move the youth away from crime,” he said adding that Obasa Games will remain sustained.

The Lagos Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Omobolaji Ogunlende, also commended the organisers of the games pledging the support of the government for such initiatives aimed at growing the youth. He charged the participants to be at their best.

In his address, Abdul-Ganiyu said the success of the first edition of the games gave the impetus to continue and expand the scope.

“This year’s event, featuring football, boxing, table tennis,
chess, and Scrabble, brings together talented athletes
and teams from across the 10 Local Government Areas
and 18 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) within the Lagos West Senatorial District.

He said the games were organised to honour the
remarkable contributions and vision of the Speaker for Lagos State.

“His commitment to the development of our state,
his unwavering support for our youth, and his passion for
fostering sports as a vehicle for positive change have
been our inspiration,” he said.

Chairman of the Agege Local Government Area, High Chief Ganiyu Egunjobi, said his council and the Orile-Agege Local Government Development Area decided to partner with the organisers to be a part of the passion that Obasa exhibits for sports.

“Sport has proven to be a cost-effective and flexible tool for promoting peace and development objectives. Sport is also an important enabler of sustainable development,” he said urging residents to always imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship

Breaking: Lawmakers Pass Vote Of Confidence In Obasa

…as Speaker turns 52

Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday passed a vote of confidence on Speaker Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa saying they remain satisfied with his leadership of the House.

The vote of confidence on the Speaker coincided with his 52nd birthday as the lawmakers eulogised him for uplifting the country’s democracy through laws that impact positively on the people.

“I rise this afternoon to move a motion that a vote of confidence be passed on the Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa to continue the good work that he has always done, especially in this 10th Assembly.

“It is good to note that every decision the Speaker has taken in the House has been with the full consent of his fellow lawmakers. He consults the members and gets their opinions,” Majorit Leader Noheem Adams raised during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Mojisola Lasbat Meranda.

Hon. Adams said his motion, seconded by Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh (Ajeromi-Ifelodun I), followed a wide consultation.

Deputy Majority Leader Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, while supporting the motion, added: “We have absolute confidence in his leadership and there is no better way to show this than to pass a vote of confidence on the Speaker.”

As part of the birthday celebration, the lawmakers praised the Speaker for his influential leadership.

“I celebrate my Speaker and note his impactful leadership. On behalf of my constituents in Eti-Osa, I wish him a happy birthday,” Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 2) said.

On his part, Hon. Nureni Akinsanya commended Dr. Obasa for his loyalty to whatever he believes in.

“No matter the circumstances, Obasa stands by you. I pray to Almighty Allah to grant him more wisdom and to bless him and his family. May he have no cause for regret in life. I wish him all the best,” he remarked.

Hon. Aro Moshood, who conveyed his birthday wishes, acknowledged Speaker Obasa’s instrumental role in shaping Lagos and Nigeria as well as his dedication to public service.

Other lawmakers joined in extending their congratulations, wishing the Speaker long life filled with greater achievements.

The House commemorated the occasion by showcasing a clip of Speaker Obasa’s significant contributions to major laws passed in the Assembly.

Obasa @52: Photos As Lagos Speaker Celebrates With School Kids

– warns students against social vices
– Aminat Alege, victim of shot teargas canister, gets N5m

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Friday celebrated with children from various schools in the State as part of activities to mark his 52nd birthday which comes up on November 11.

Dr. Obasa, who gifted brilliant pupils from across the 20 local government areas of Lagos and students in the six districts of the state with cash rewards, urged the children to abstain from social vices as such could redirect their purposes in life.

At the event which was held at the Oyewole Primary School, Agege, the Speaker said he loves celebrating his birthday with school children as a way to motivate them and make them serious with their studies.

“We want you to develop that confidence, that dream that you will become something tomorrow. This was my school. As a child, I never thought that I would be where I am today.

“Therefore, you must be hardworking. It does not matter the name of your school, what matters is your ability and how much you can put into your study. So start reading now.

“I was in class three when I finished preparing the processes for WAEC exams. I can display my result and how I passed at one sitting. You don’t have to feel oppressed because you’re not in a private school. That’s why we are always here to encourage you and make you see that you’re truly our future.

“You can be better than us but you must make sure you are serious with your education. I want a situation where in the future, you would remember today and also find yourself in positions to inspire others.

“Please, I beg you. Never give in to crime. For the girls, do not be corrupted or influenced negatively. Don’t be enticed with money. Be upright and adopt morality,” the Speaker advised.

AMINAT ALEGE: 12-YEAR-OLD STUDENT SHOT IN EYE GETS N5M

One of the highlights of the event was the award of N5 million to Aminat Alege, the student who was mistakenly hit in the eye by a teargas canister shot by a policeman on February 9, 2024.

The money was contributed by the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly as part of efforts to help the victim’s family mitigate the educational challenge she may have faced since the incident.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues during the presentation of a cheque to Aminat’s parents, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, (Eti-Osa II), said Speaker Obasa had been disturbed since the incident happened to the student of the Adams Yakubu Memorial school Agege.

He said the lawmakers decided to assist after watching Aminat’s parents appeal for assistance from the public.

“There was a programme where the parents cried out for assistance. So we at the Lagos State House of Assembly have contributed the sum of N5 million. We have also offered a scholarship for the young lady so that she can continue her education,” he said.

The lawmakers further donated 15 computer sets to three schools, Oyewole Primary School, Thomas Aquinas school and Royal Apple School.

2 STUDENTS WIN SCHOLARSHIPS

For winning in a current affairs question-and-answer session, two students at the event won scholarships by the chairman of Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area, Babatunde Johnson.

Ishola Moyinoluwa of Ikeja Junior High School and Isiaka Bashar Ayomiposi of Eko Junior College were among the students who participated in the competition.

While Moyinoluwa came first, Ayomiposi came second during the competition.

Commending Obasa, Mr. Johnson, noted God’s mercies on the Speaker who he described as “a leader that has paid his dues.”

The Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Noheem Adams, said Obasa had become a pride to the people of Agege because of the massive infrastructural development the Speaker has attracted to the area.

Speaking for the educational sector, Tutor-General Adekanye Oladele, commended the Speaker for always uplifting education in the state.

She promised that the students would continue to make the state proud.

Why Governors Must See Legislature As Partners, Not Appendages – Obasa, Lawmakers

– Lagos Assembly urges NASS to criminalise acts against Parliamentary independence

– wants more recognitions for past Speakers

The Lagos State House of Assembly on Tuesday called on governors in Nigeria to avoid seeing state legislatures as appendages of the executive but instead, treat lawmakers as partners in the progress and development of states.

The House, which described the legislature as the bedrock of democracy, further called on the National Assembly to criminalise any action that violates the independence of the parliament.

The House passed the resolutions in commemoration of the 2024 edition of the International Day of Parliamentarism celebrated on June 30.

The House further urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to recognise past speakers of the Lagos Assembly for their contributions to the state’s growth and development.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, emphasised the significance of honouring past speakers who have served and contributed to the development of the state.

Dr. Obasa asserted that without the parliament, there is no democracy. He highlighted the institution’s crucial role in governance through lawmaking, motions and resolutions.

He described the International Day of Parliamentarism as a day to “do more to draw the attention of Nigerians to the importance of the legislature.”

While congratulating parliamentarians across the country for their contributions toward the nation’s development, Obasa said: “It is also important to note that a government has three arms, and if one is missing, there is no government.

“Since 1979 when this House was established under Alhaji Lateef Jakande, none of the past speakers have been celebrated.

“We should celebrate those who have represented us well and convey to the National Assembly the need to allow Houses of Assembly to practise what the constitution says about the parliament effectively and to provide the necessary support.

“The governors should also give the political will to the parliament to enable it to perform its duties as stated in the constitution,” Dr. Obasa added.

Other lawmakers who contributed supported that the parliament should be celebrated while applauding the leadership of Speaker Obasa.

Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa constituency 2, said the role of a parliament cannot be overemphasised.

“Democracy is all about the parliament. It is a bridge between the people and government, but we are sometimes underappreciated as representatives of the people. There is no gap between the parliament and the people. There is no type of government that can exist without parliament,” he said.

Hon. Desmond Elliot (Surulere ) noted that nothing occurs in a state without the input of the parliament while Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh described parliamentarians as stabilisers of the polity who deserve to be celebrated.

Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu urged that the House should consider being a part of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

Speaker Obasa Congratulates Sanwo-Olu At 58, Celebrates Gbajabiamila On Birthday

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has congratulated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, as they mark their birthdays.

While Governor Sanwo-Olu is 58, Gbajabiamila, immediate past Speaker of the House of Representatives, is 61.

In a message celebrating Sanwo-Olu, Dr. Obasa described the Governor as a Lagosian whose background and experience in the corporate world have helped in sustaining the position of Lagos as the yardstick for measuring development in Nigeria.

Obasa described Sanwo-Olu as an exemplary Governor with a sense of purpose and commitment to the ideals that make Lagos great.

“You have constantly ignited the passion for the sustenance of the dream, vision and the inclusiveness that have kept us achieving more for the people of our dear State.

“Your life speaks a volume of blessings, God’s favour and, because you are a technocrat of repute, our State of excellence will continue to benefit from your wealth of knowledge and experience as you increase in age.

“Indeed, this is just the beginning of greater years to come,” the Speaker said in a statement by his media office.

Rejoicing with Gbajabiamlia, Dr. Obasa described the former Speaker as a compassionate person and one who breathes life into every task to which he finds himself assigned.

“You have consistently displayed genuineness of purpose and leadership.

“We witnessed this in the various positions you held at the House of Representatives and more especially as Speaker. History will always throw you up as the leader of one of the most peaceful periods of the House of Representatives in Nigeria.

“Your leadership skills, diligence and commitment to nation-building are few of your radiant and remarkable attributes that will continue to help you meet the tasks ahead as you support Mr. President in his pursuit for a greater Nigeria.

“On behalf of my family, colleagues, management and staff of the Lagos legislature, I pray that Almighty Allah will always empower you to remain of service to Him and humanity, amin,” Speaker Obasa prayed.

Eromosele Ebhomele

Breaking: Lagos 9th Assembly Ends, Lawmakers-elect Declare Obasa To Speak Again

The ninth session of the Lagos State House of Assembly officially ended on Friday with the returning lawmakers and lawmakers-elect all declaring support for Dr. Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the 10th Assembly.

The lawmakers-elect, who were physically present at the sitting, spoke with journalists immediately after the valedictory session of the House presided over by Speaker Obasa.

Speaking on behalf of the returning lawmakers, the immediate past Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, said Speaker Obasa had no rival.

“I give it to the Rt. Hon. Speaker Obasa for being able to coordinate 40 members of different backgrounds, different thinking and religions and even different tribes because we had Hon. Jude Idimogu,” she said.

On what qualifies the Speaker for a return, Hon. Meranda said: “Obasa is the best man for the job. The experience, capacity and leadership skills are there and I don’t see anybody matching up to him.

“He will be returning as a sixth timer and I don’t think any of us is on the same pedestal with him. I wish him all the best in the 10th Assembly because he is going to lead us again. He is a fantastic man.”

Also addressing journalists, Hon. Mojeed Fatai, immediate past chairman of the Committee on Public Accounts (local), said the leadership of the ninth Assembly ensured a cordial relationship among members.

“Mudashiru Obasa is going to speak again in the 10th Assembly. He is a man we have all resolved to lead us. When we started four years ago, all of us were elected from the APC and it was because of his effort and the way he handled the House.

“Today, we have 38 members from the APC coming in the 10th Assembly. The success is because of Obasa’s leadership capability. He is the best for the House and we want him to continue,” he said.

On his part, Hon. Temitope Adewale (Ifako Ijaiye Constituency 1), described Obasa as a leader who had made tremendous impact on the members.

“Under Obasa, the executive and legislative arms of government have enjoyed a fantastic relationship and that is why you have developmental growth across the State today. You can also see the bills passed into law.

“With Mr. Speaker coming back and with our governor back, they will give to Lagosians the desired development that they yearn for particularly considering the fact that we now have a President who is from here,” Adewale said.

Speaking on behalf of the 20 first-term lawmakers-elect, Oladipo Olayinka Ajomale, who will represent Oshodi Isolo 2 at the 10th Assembly, said he and his colleagues have resolved to support Obasa as Speaker of the 10th Assembly.

“I can assure you that the 20 of us who are new are fully in support of Speaker Obasa for the 10th Assembly because we have learnt and understudied and we know that this is a man who has proven himself over and over again to be the best man for the job.

“Logically thinking about it, he is the most experienced in the House. So it doesn’t make sense for anyone to come and do trial by error. I stand with him fully and all of us who are new also support the Speaker to speak for us at the 10th Assembly,” he said.

Earlier, the Speaker had commended the ninth Assembly lawmakers for their support which led to the passing of 46 bills, over 120 resolutions and a couple of regulations.

He also presented certificates of meritorious service to the members.

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly

Governorship Election: Speaker Obasa Votes… Says APC Will Win Lagos

Governorship Election: Speaker Obasa Votes, Says APC Will Win Lagos

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has expressed optimism that his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) will win the ongoing governorship and House of Assembly election in the State.

Obasa spoke with journalists on Saturday after casting his vote at Unit 019, Ward E, Oluwole Olaniyan Street, Agege, saying he believes that Allah would crown the efforts of the APC with success.

“APC will be declared winner in both the governorship and House of Assembly elections. We are certain of victory. We voted for and won the presidential election. So we strongly believe in Almighty Allah and we know He will crown our efforts with success,” he said.

He described the security deployment for the exercise as very impressive.

“I can see a lot of them around and I think it is very good. It’s very impressive and I hope it will be sustained till the end of the exercise,” Obasa said as he expressed hope that more voters would turn out before the end of the exercise.

“We are still very hopeful that many of our people would come out before the end of the exercise.

“Majority of those we have here are youth. So we can confirm that the youth have turned up. But we are not particular about demography. We are talking about everyone qualified to vote.

Asked what the youth should expect from him going forward, the Speaker said: “We have been working together with the youth and there is a strong collaboration. They have access to us and we are always open. We have always worked together and we will continue to attend to their requests.”

Eromosele Ebhomele
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Obasa to Remi Tinubu At 62: Your Roles In Nigeria’s Democracy Are Indelible

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has congratulated Senator Oluremi Tinubu on her 62nd birthday.

Dr. Obasa, in a statement by Eromosele Ebhomele, his Chief Press Secretary, described the former First Lady of Lagos as one whose love for Nigeria and roles in national unity and development are worthy of emulation by every well-meaning citizen.

The Speaker added that Senator Tinubu has continued to etch her name in the history of Nigeria as a politician of repute, a champion of the downtrodden and an advocate for the youth, the aged and good governance.

He noted Senator Tinubu’s passion for a greater Nigeria both as a crusader for a more vibrant democracy and as a serving member of the National Assembly.

“As the loving wife of our dear leader and presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you have been a major pillar of support and progress.

“That Nigeria practises democracy today is partly as a result of the roles you played while the military held on the the government of the country. History is replete with how you worked tirelessly against the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election result won by Chief MKO Abiola and how you took care of many exiled members of the National Democratic Coalition and citizens of Nigeria who were at the time under the radar.

“As First Lady of Lagos State, your love for the education of the underprivileged in the society and the need to raise standards gave birth to your pet project, The Spelling Bee Competion, which, delightedly, has produced great minds and future leaders.

“Lagos is blessed with you and we are happy that you have remained a major support for the growth and development of our State. You have also remained a mentor to many Nigerians whose lives you have touched with your New Era Foundation and various scholarship programmes.

“On behalf of my family and members of the legislative arm of Lagos government, I congratulate you on your birthday and pray that God continue to bless you with good health, strength and divine capacity ahead of the bigger task before us all, amen,” Obasa prayed.