The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has distanced himself from protests that followed the release of candidates’ lists for the All Progressives Congress (APC) legislative primaries, warning against attempts to use his name to promote demonstrations or political agitation.
Obasa’s reaction comes in the wake of protests staged by APC members from several local government areas, including Badagry, Mushin, Amuwo-Odofin, Eti-Osa, Somolu, Ajeromi-Ifelodun and Oshodi-Isolo, at the party’s secretariat on ACME Road in Ikeja.
The protesters had alleged irregularities in the conduct and outcome of the party’s primaries and called for a review of the process.
Amid the controversy, messages circulated on WhatsApp claiming that Obasa provided ₦2 billion to sponsor and coordinate the demonstrations across different parts of Lagos State.
Reacting to the allegations, the Speaker described the claims as false, malicious and unfounded, insisting that he had no involvement in the protests.
“It is foolhardy, malicious, misleading and baseless for anybody to assume or imply that I will import or mobilise protesters from different local governments to the secretariat. To achieve what exactly?” Obasa said.
The Speaker noted that he was not a candidate in the disputed primary election and questioned the rationale behind allegations that he would commit such resources to organising protests.
“I am not a candidate in the disputed election, so why and how will I devote such an amount of money to organising protests?” he added.
Obasa further stressed his commitment to peace and unity within the APC, warning against efforts to drag his name into activities capable of creating division within the ruling party.
According to him, he remains focused on promoting harmony and supporting the continued growth and development of Lagos State.
“I am a peace-loving party man, and I abhor the use of my name and office for any form of illegality or to sow division within the party,” he said.
The Speaker reaffirmed his dedication to the stability and progress of the APC, stating that his priority remains the unity of the party and the welfare of Lagos residents.
“My steadfast commitment remains the unity, peace, and progress of our great party and the people of Lagos State,” Obasa stated.
