How Mudashiru Obasa’s Unrestrained Ambition Threatens Lagos’ Political Harmony

In Lagos State’s history, some areas have often been perceived as extensions of Ogun State due to their proximity to Ogun’s heartland. Agege, Ifako-Ijaiye, and the entirety of Alimosho once fell under this perception, seen as enclaves of Ogun State indigenes rather than integral parts of Lagos. This perception came with significant disadvantages, particularly in the distribution of resources and political representation.

However, the residents of these areas rose to the occasion, redefining their identity and asserting their place in Lagos State’s sociopolitical framework. Among the biggest beneficiaries of this transformation is Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, a proud Egba native from Onikolobo in Abeokuta. Obasa made history as the first person from this area to occupy the position of Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. His tenure, now in its third term, follows a historic sixth term as the representative of Agege Constituency 1 in the Assembly. Truly, Obasa’s political ascent epitomizes the rewards of these communities’ struggles for recognition and relevance.

The unwavering support extended to Obasa by the people of Agege, Ifako-Ijaiye, and Alimosho seemed justified, given their shared history. However, instead of using this goodwill to uplift others and solidify the political standing of these areas, Obasa has turned this support into a vehicle for personal ambition. His governance has taken a divisive turn, characterized by an unbridled quest for power and a confrontational approach to anyone perceived as an obstacle.

Obasa’s ambition to become the next Governor of Lagos State has exposed an unsettling pattern in his leadership style. He has shown little tolerance for dissent, demanding either absolute loyalty or complete annihilation of opposition. His confrontational stance has extended beyond his constituency, targeting key players in the All Progressives Congress (APC), including the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and even President Bola Tinubu himself.

A glaring example of this behaviour occurred a few months ago when Obasa defied the GAC’s position by convening a public hearing on the dissolution of the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). This initiative, originally championed by President Tinubu, is a cornerstone of the development framework in Lagos State. Obasa’s unilateral move was perceived as an attempt to seize control of local councils, disregarding the vision and legacy of the party’s foremost leader.

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Similarly, Obasa has repeatedly undermined Governor Sanwo-Olu, most recently during the Governor’s budget presentation. In an act of audacity, he used the occasion to laud himself, comparing his achievements to those of Governor Sanwo-Olu and even President Tinubu, boldly claiming superiority over them all. Such remarks not only betray a lack of decorum but also expose his ungoverned approach to leadership.

These actions have placed Agege, Alimosho, and Ifako-Ijaiye in precarious political waters. Obasa’s ambition threatens to erode the hard-won gains of these communities, casting a shadow over their future in Lagos State politics. Recognizing this danger, the residents of these areas have begun to distance themselves from Obasa and his tactics.

For the APC leadership and Lagos stakeholders, this moment demands decisive action. Obasa’s behavior must not be allowed to jeopardize the progress these areas have achieved. The message is clear: Obasa’s unrestrained ambition is his alone to bear, and Lagos must move forward without allowing one individual’s conduct to overshadow the collective aspirations of its people.