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Obasa Responds to Critics: “I Am Qualified for Lagos Governorship

Published by admin on November 22nd, 2024.

Obasa Responds to Critics: “I Am Qualified for Lagos Governorship

Mudashiru Obasa, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has defended his qualifications to run for the office of governor, responding directly to political critics who have questioned his ambitions.

Obasa’s remarks came shortly after Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presented a ₦3 trillion budget proposal for the 2025 fiscal year. Addressing the allegations from political opponents who interpreted his efforts to strengthen the All Progressives Congress (APC) as part of a personal ambition to run for governor in 2025, Obasa clarified his position.

While he acknowledged that he has an interest in the state’s leadership, Obasa stressed that his primary focus remains on advancing the APC through the Mandate group, with his gubernatorial ambitions being secondary. He emphasized that his actions were centered on party-building, not personal gain.

“Let me use this opportunity to highlight the importance of continuing to build and strengthen our party, the APC, especially as we look ahead to 2027. We must keep mobilizing people, as I have always done,” Obasa explained.

He further addressed the misconception that his efforts to mobilize support through Mandate were solely driven by personal ambition, saying, “Some of my critics have wrongly interpreted my work with Mandate as a selfish push for the governorship. I want to clarify that my focus is solely on advancing our party’s cause.”

Obasa also directly confronted those attempting to undermine his goals, declaring, “To the individuals trying to misrepresent our mission, I want to make it clear that our objective is to promote our party and its ideals. Becoming governor is not my primary concern, and it’s not something I have intensely pursued at this stage.”

However, he firmly asserted that while his governorship bid is not yet a top priority, he is certainly qualified for the role, stating, “Let me be clear: I am neither too young nor inexperienced to run for governor. Those who have previously held the position are not necessarily better qualified than I am.”

Obasa also addressed claims from critics who suggested that he sought political legitimacy through family connections in Ojo. He clarified, “I have never claimed any connection to prominent Lagos families like the Oniru or Onikoyi families. While I am indeed related to the Obasa family in Ojo, I do not need local ties to run for office. If I choose to contest, it will be as a proud son of Agege.”

In his speech, the Speaker underscored the importance of maintaining the independence of the legislative branch in Nigeria’s democracy. “This House recognizes and upholds its independence,” he said, stressing the collaborative yet distinct role the legislature plays alongside the executive and judiciary. “The House must remain a sanctuary, a temple where the integrity of its members is protected.”

Obasa also issued a stern warning to those who might seek to undermine the legislature, likening such efforts to desecrating a sacred space. “No one can violate this temple and expect to escape consequences. There will be no intimidation that can break the unity of this House,” he declared.

Finally, Obasa assured Governor Sanwo-Olu that the legislature would thoroughly review the budget proposal but emphasized that the House would maintain its dignity and role in the process. “We will not allow ourselves to be disgraced or manipulated in the name of creating a harmonious working environment.”

Concluding with a proverb, Obasa advised his critics, “Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. Just as the god of iron respects the swift, those who seek to disrupt the unity of this House should be prepared for the consequences.”