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Tension Brews in Lagos GAC: Obanikoro and Adefuye Disagree Over Obasa’s Impeachment

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 26th, 2025.

Tension Brews in Lagos GAC: Obanikoro and Adefuye Disagree Over Obasa’s Impeachment

A member of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos, Musiliu Obanikoro, has sharply criticized his colleague, Anthony Adefuye, for voicing support for the ousted Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.

The GAC, which is the key decision-making body within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, was formed by President Bola Tinubu and comprises influential party figures who oversee crucial matters, including party nominations, elections, and executive roles.

On January 13, Obasa (APC-Agege 1) was removed from his position as Speaker over allegations of misconduct and replaced by the former Deputy Speaker, Mojisola Meranda. Obasa later publicly contested the impeachment, claiming that the procedure followed was flawed and unconstitutional. During a speech to his supporters in Ikeja, he asserted that he was still the rightful Speaker and denied the corruption charges against him.

Adefuye, a member of the GAC, expressed his support for Obasa, agreeing that the impeachment process was illegal. In a recent interview, he commented, “What Obasa is saying is that his removal was unlawful, and I concur with his position.”

However, Obanikoro, who has served as a two-time minister, took issue with Adefuye’s public remarks, calling them irresponsible and immature. He described Adefuye’s comments as “unfortunate, childish, and inconsequential.”

Obanikoro further criticized the timing and tone of Adefuye’s statement, saying, “As leaders, it is inappropriate to rush to make personal or public declarations on such serious matters.” He emphasized the importance of following due process, pointing out that GAC had yet to officially address the issue. “It is highly irresponsible for any member of GAC to speak out publicly on such a sensitive matter before the council has made its official position clear,” Obanikoro added.

Additionally, Obanikoro underlined the importance of maintaining the organizational hierarchy within GAC, noting, “Our leader, the President of Nigeria, has intervened in the matter. Therefore, it is inappropriate for any individual member to issue opinions based on their personal standing.”