A socio-political group, Ondo State Redemption Initiative (OSRI), has expressed its displeasure with the efforts of some individuals in Ondo State to frustrate the peaceful truce brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu between supporters of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and supporters of his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The group, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Secretary and Publicity Secretary, Pastor Adebayo Ogunsanmi, Jide Oriola and Sunday Ayeni respectively, alleged that some persons claiming to be supporting the deputy governor, have declared a total resistance to the peaceful solution proferred by the president.
The group alleged the supporters of Aiyedatiwa of procuring the service of some prominent lawyers to push for the enforcement of doctrine of necessity to declare Akeredolu incapacitated and for his Deputy to be declared as the Acting Governor. 
According to the statement, “We are very aware that it was true that Aiyedatiwa was asked to sign an undated letter of resignation in the Abuja resolution in the presence of the president.
“But to our surprise, the deputy governor attended and chaired the state Executive Council meeting on Thursday and told the cabinet a different story.”
The group stated that it learnt the deputy governor claimed that Governor Akeredolu didn’t carry him along in governance to prevent him from helping his followers 
It also claimed the deputy governor was also collecting millions of naira as allowance monthly besides fleet of SUVs including a bulletproof model he uses.
Speaking on the allegations levelled against the deputy governor, the group suggested that Investigation should have been conducted to ascertain the veracity of the allegations.
It also disclosed that some supporters of the deputy governor are still making efforts to polarise the state House of Assembly for his political gain.
The statement reads in parts: “We want to once again restate that peace must reign in Ondo State. We repeat It is time for peace to reign.
“We want to urge the deputy governor to respect the terms of the peace brokered by the presidency.” 

In the world of politics, it is a rare occurrence to find a legislator who consistently delivers excellence over a span of two decades. However, in the case of Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly in Nigeria, this exceptional feat has become a defining characteristic of his distinguished career. As we celebrate his 51st birthday and 20 years of legislative excellence from 2003 to 2023, it is impossible to ignore the significant impact he has made on the lives of the people he serves.
Starting out as a councillor in Agege Local Government in 1999, Obasa has developed into a significant player in Lagos politics, reaching the third highest position in the state.
In 2003, he represented his constituents, Agege Constituency 01, in the Lagos State House of Assembly. On June 8, 2015, he was elected as the Speaker of the Eighth Assembly. His colleagues reelected him to continue his commendable work in the Ninth and current 10th Assembly.
From the moment he took his oath of office in 2003, it was evident that he possessed a remarkable dedication to public service. Throughout his terms in office, he has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of the Lagos State community. This empathy, coupled with his unwavering commitment to progress, has allowed him to navigate the complex landscape of legislative work with ease.
One cannot discuss Obasa’s legislative achievements without acknowledging the transformative legislation he has championed. To date, he has initiated approximately six Private Member Bills, making him the first and only Speaker in Lagos history to accomplish such a feat. It’s also important to mention that the majority of his Private Member Bills have directly benefited the people of the state.
The House under his speakership had passed into Law, 46 Bills with over 120 resolutions and a couple of regulations in four years, during the 9th Assembly. With such passage, the House had brought about remarkable legislative improvement and service delivery to the State.
In addition to his legislative achievements, Obasa’s leadership style is worth commending. As the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, he has fostered an environment of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability. His open-door policy has allowed for constructive dialogue and collaboration among legislators, resulting in the passage of impactful bills and policies.
There is no doubt about his leadership qualities, and today he successfully guided the proceedings of the state Assembly, resulting in a remarkably peaceful Parliament in Nigeria. Being a bridge builder, he not only promotes peace but also embraces the concept of love and sharing among individuals.
In his role as an administrator, he made sure to uphold and enhance the tradition of providing continuous training for lawmakers and staff of the Lagos State House of Assembly, making them possibly the most well-trained in the country.
A chieftain and two-term ex-state chairman of the party, Chief Henry Oladele Ajomale, described him as a loyal party man, a leader, a democrat, and both fearless and brave.
“Obasa has been involved in politics for a while now. Though not as long as some of us, he has definitely worked and contributed a lot over the years. From AD to AC to ACN and now APC, he has helped carry on the vision of our forefathers. Without that continuity, we wouldn’t have the focus or the direction we need.
“When I was the chairman of the party, he was always there representing the House of Assembly. He made sure everyone paid their dues to support the party. In fact, he led by example – always the first to pay his fair share. That’s the sign of a true team player.
“To us that know him, know that he is a very courageous, bold, not afraid to take decisions that are going to benefit the majority of the people. That is how you know leadership, by knowing someone who is not afraid to take decisions. The good decisions on behalf of the people, that shows his leadership skill and that is why they call him a leader. So far so good, he has done what is expected of him very well.
“He is quiet, unassuming but don’t touch the tail of the cobra when it is sleeping. Don’t wake it up, you’ll see venom. The day you try to step on the tail of the cobra, you’re in trouble, but he respects everybody, leaders, elders, even the younger ones, because respect begets respect, that is respect deserves and it is reciprocal. He has shown that trait, so he will respect you, even if you’re a toddler. That is why he is unique, that’s why I like him,” said Chief Ajomale.
Hon. Femi Saheed, the lawmaker representing Kosofe Constituency 02, described him as a man of many parts. “He has an in-depth understanding of what legislature is all about. He is well-grounded in lawmaking and is able to form different opinions fitting each situation. He is a man that you cannot work with and complain because he is a teacher, a lawmaker, and a pragmatic achiever who loves the people he works with and believes in honesty and dedication. He is a man who assesses you more than you think. He has an innate ability to study individuals personally and assigns responsibilities based on their understanding. He is a good achiever.
“Lagos State House of Assembly, according to our slogan, is the House above the common standard of Excellence. You can see the kind of laws that we have enacted and the impacts they have made. You can also see the way the public perceives us across the country.
“It is because of his robust legislative experience that we have been able to bring confidence, sagacity, and exposure into the legislature. This has been the only instrument that we have been using as a recipe to be above other assemblies in Nigeria.”
According to Engr. Rasheed Shabi, a first-term member representing Lagos Mainland, “I can strongly say that the distinguished Speaker has been a humble and dedicated gentleman. He is distinct and professional in his job. He is someone who will be there for you when you are close to him, but do not abuse that relationship.
“Since we came in, he has been a brother and a leader to all of us. He has never discriminated against anyone, including the two Labor Party representatives. He has accepted us as one. He says that as long as we are in this House, we are all one and it does not matter which party you came on board with. He wants everyone to contribute when it comes to decision-making. He does not dictate the way things should be because he is the Speaker. He wants all of us to contribute, even at the parliamentary level.”
According to Hon. Kehinde Joseph, a third-term lawmaker representing Alimosho Constituency 02, “If you want to understand how the parliament works, just study the Speaker. He is incredibly smart. Whatever question you ask, he gives an immediate thoughtful response directly related to what you asked.
“As Speaker for the past three assemblies, he has set the standard. And he knows how to reward good work. When it’s time to recognize your efforts, he is there to do it. And don’t even try to act smarter than him because there’s very little about the legislative process he doesn’t know inside and out. If you have any challenges in your work, I guarantee he’ll have the perfect advice. He’s like the Joseph in the Bible who could interpret dreams.
“I have learned so much from him, and I’m very grateful. Among all the state assemblies, he is probably the longest-serving member. When you look at other countries, their parliamentarians often serve for decades. So his longevity really helps us. The state is lucky to have such a capable Speaker. All current and former members will tell you he is the ideal person for the job.”
According to Hon. Tobun Mustainu Abiodun,”Obasa has been a great friend and mentor since I joined the House. He is very humble and hardworking, always making time to help others understand the legislative process. We’ve learned a lot from him about how to best serve our constituents. He truly cares about the people of Lagos and works tirelessly each day to move the state forward. He leads by example and has helped elevate the House to new heights. I respect him not just as our Speaker but as a father figure who wants the best for all.
“Under Obasa’s guidance, the Lagos State House of Assembly has become a model for other state legislatures to learn from. He has set a high bar for excellence that we strive each day to meet. From improving infrastructure to passing impactful laws, he has transformed the House into one of the most effective in the country. Other states regularly adopt our policies, showing the positive influence we’ve had nationwide. Obasa’s vision and dedication have strengthened democracy and bettered lives across Lagos. We’re proud of all he has accomplished and the example he sets for principled leadership.
“The LNSC has been hugely beneficial for Lagos, helping maintain law and order through intelligence gathering and community partnerships. While not armed like the police, they fulfill an important security role. They work closely with the NPF to evaluate threats and keep citizens safe. No system is perfect, but the LNSC demonstrates Lagos’ commitment to innovative, collaborative approaches that produce real results. Their efforts, along with laws passed by this House under Obasa’s guidance, have undoubtedly enhanced stability across the state,” he averred.
The lawmaker, representing Eti-Osa Constituency 2, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, in his congratulatory message to Obasa, speaks to the fact that the journey to the top is with its course through the path of loyalty and fidelity to the right values.
According to him,”He has not only distinguished himself as a lawyer, lawmaker and politician, his track-record as a leader is outstanding. He is bold, forthright and visionary, always looking out for ways to chart a new path to enrich process and outcomes.
“Under the leadership of Mr Speaker, the Lagos State House of Assembly has continued to set the pace among the legislative houses in Nigeria.
“It is on record that under him, the 9th Assembly passed a total of 46 bills and over 120 resolutions, which made huge positive impacts in the development of Lagos State and lives of Lagosians.
“He is never afraid to assign responsibilities to others and extend opportunities that help to broaden the experience and record of other legislators in Lagos State and Nigeria generally. He is always looking out for good, progress and development of others.
“The story of Rt. Hon. (Dr) Obasa is one that inspires on many areas. It is a story of determination and industry that has seen him through an inspiring and progressive journey, which started with him as a legislator in Agege Local Government to becoming one of the most successful lawmakers in the history of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
“This day offers me yet another opportunity to celebrate and appreciate this great man, who I have had the privilege and honour of working with in the last 12 years, eight of those years under his leadership as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
“As Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa celebrates his 51st Birthday, I congratulate and wish him many happy returns of the day. May Almighty Allah grant him good health and wisdom to continue to positively impact this and future generations. Happy Birthday, My Speaker,” he prayed.
It is perhaps Obasa’s ability to consistently exceed expectations that sets him apart from his peers. Throughout his 20 years in office, he has continually raised the bar for legislative excellence. Whether through his tireless work ethic, unwavering dedication to the people, or visionary leadership, Obasa has proven time and time again that he is a force to be reckoned with in the political arena.
As we reflect on Mudashiru Obasa’s 51st birthday anniversary and 20 years of legislative excellence, it is clear that his impact on Lagos State cannot be overstated. His unwavering commitment to progress, coupled with his visionary leadership, has transformed the lives of countless individuals.
As he continues to serve the people of Lagos State, one can only anticipate even greater achievements and a brighter future under his guidance.

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the Supreme Court will hear the motion of the Peoples Democratic Party and Action Peoples Party respectively which applied to the apex Court to give effect to its judgment delivered on December 20, 2019, disqualifying Uche Nwosu from the Imo governorship election on the ground of double nomination on Tuesday, October 31st, 2023.
The apex court had in a judgment delivered on December 20, 2019 found that Nwosu was nominated by both Action Alliance (AA) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) and consequently nullified his nomination.
A political party is not capable of sponsoring two candidates for the same office in the same election.
This informed the decision of the PDP and APP to file different applications at the Supreme Court seeking that the PDP candidate, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha be declared the winner of the election since APC is precluded from sponsoring two candidates in the Imo State governorship election.
In an affidavit filed in support of the application which was deposed to by a legal practitioner, Adedamola Farokun, working in the Legal Department of the PDP, he averred thus: “The third Respondent/Applicant (PDP) is neither in any way seeking a review of the valid, subsisting and well considered judgment of this court delivered in this appeal nor seeking a review of the judgment of this court delivered on 14th January 2020 in SC/462/2019 but humbly seeking that this court give effect to its judgment delivered on 20th December,2019.
“That this court has the constitutional, inherent powers and jurisdiction to grant the reliefs sought and give effects to its judgment.“That it is in the interest of justice for this court to exercise its wide discretionary powers in favour of granting this application as prayed.”
In the application, PDP is asking the court to declare that the governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma was not the candidate of the APC based on the court’s judgment that Nwosu was nominated by both the APC and the Action Alliance.
PDP is also asking the court for an order enforcing or otherwise directing the enforcement and or giving effect to the judgement of the court in the case delivered on the 20th December 2019 wherein the court held that Nwosu was nominated by both APC and AA and consequently declared his nomination a nullity.
PDP is asking the Supreme Court to hold that “both the Action Alliance (AA) and the All Progressive Congress (APC) did not sponsor and/or field any candidate for the governorship election held in lmo State on 9th March, 2019 in view of the double nomination of the Appellant/Respondent by the two political parties aforesaid, and his subsequent disqualification as their gubernatorial candidate, as found by this honourable court in the judgment delivered on 20th December, 2019.”
The party asked the court for an order sequel to the above that Senator Hope Uzodinma was not a candidate by himself or of any party at the Imo State Governorship election held on 9th March, 2019.
PDP also asked the court for an order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission to withdraw the certificate of return issued to Senator Hope Uzodinma.
It asked the court “for an order further directing the 4th respondent to issue a certificate of return to the gubernatorial candidate of the 3rd Respondent/Applicant, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ehedioha in the lmo state Governorship election held on 9th March. 2019 as the duly elected governor of Imo state, having scored the second highest number of votes in the said election sequel to the judgment of this court in Appeal No SC/1462/2019 Hope Uzodinma & Anor vs Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha & Others delivered on 14th January, 2020.”
The party further sought an order sequel to the above, directing that the said gubernatorial candidate of the 3rd Respondent/Applicant in the lmo state Governorship election held on the 9th March 2019 Rt. Hon. Emeka lhedioha be immediately sworn in as the governor of lmo State.
PDP stated the grounds for the application thus: “The court found that the Appellant/Respondent was nominated by both APC and AA as their gubernatorial candidate for the lmo state governorship election and conclusively held that he was disqualified by the provisions of S. 37 of the Electoral Act (as amended), for double nomination.
b. That after the said election, the governorship candidate of the 3d Respondent/Applicant Rt. Honourable Emeka lhedioha, was returned by the 4th Respondent as the winners of the election and consequently sworn into office.
That subsequently, the return of the governorship candidate of the 3rd Respondent/Applicant was challenged up to this court by one Senator Hope Uzodinma who claimed to be the gubernatorial ‘candidate of the APC.’
That the Supreme Court in its judgement delivered on 14th January, 2020 held that it was the said Senator Hope Uzodinma and not Rt. Honourable Emeka lhedioha that scored the highest number of votes in the election and ought to be returned as the duly elected governor of lmo State.
That by the clear terms of the judgement in this appeal, neither the AA nor the APC fielded any candidate for the lmo state governorship election held on 9th March 2019 and as such the said Senator Hope Uzodinma could not have been returned as the winner of the lmo State Governorship election as a candidate of the APC.
That APC could not have substituted the appellant with a view to further nominating the said Senator Hope Uzodinma as their candidate because that right was not available to the party under the Electoral Act.
That Senator Hope Uzodinma could not have been a candidate in the election as an independent candidate as such right is not available to him.
That the 3rd respondent Applicant, PDP, as the main beneficiary of the judgment ought to enjoy the fruits of the said judgement.
That Rt. Honourable Emeka lhedioha, who is the candidate nominated by the 3rd Respondent /Applicant, and who scored the second highest number of votes after Senator Hope Uzodinma, from the judgment of this court ought therefore to be issued a certificate of return by the 4th respondent and sworn in accordingly.
That it will advance the cause of justice to grant this application particularly as none of the parties will be prejudiced by its grant.