Discover Mudashiru Obasa biography including his age, net worth, political career, wives, impeachment saga, controversies, and legacy as Lagos State Assembly Speaker. Learn about his law background, rise to power, and role in Nigerian politics.
- Who is Mudashiru Obasa?
- Mudashiru Obasa Profile Summary
- Early Life and Education Background
- Primary and Secondary Education
- University and Professional Qualifications
- Business Ventures and Net Worth
- Estimated Net Worth
- Political Career and Rise to Prominence
- Early Political Journey
- Entry into Lagos State House of Assembly
- Committee Assignments and Leadership Roles
- Ascension to Speaker
- Career Milestones and Achievements
- Legislative Achievements
- Key Laws Passed
- Other Contributions
- Power Struggles and Political Controversies
- Clashes with Governor Ambode
- Tensions with Governor Sanwo-Olu
- The 2024 Budget Presentation Incident
- The Governorship Ambition Declaration
- The 2020 Corruption Allegations
- EFCC Investigation
- Obasa’s Response
- The Impeachment Saga of January 2025
- The Emergency Plenary
- Election of Mojisola Meranda
- Obasa’s Response and Legal Challenge
- The Reinstatement of March 2025
- Political Intervention
- The Dramatic Reversal
- Terms of Reinstatement
- Court Vindication in April 2025
- Personal Life: Wives, Children and Family
- Wives
- Children
- Father’s Death
- Political Philosophy and Public Perception
- Relationship with President Tinubu
- Divided Public Perception
- Honours and Awards
- Legacy and Impact on Lagos Politics
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Mudashiru Obasa?
Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa is a Nigerian lawyer and politician who has served as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly since March 2025.
Born on 11 November 1972 in Agege, Lagos State, Obasa previously served as Speaker from June 2015 to January 2025, making him the longest-serving Speaker in Lagos State history. He represents Agege Constituency I and is a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Obasa’s political career has been marked by significant achievements and controversies. He holds the distinction of being the first legislator in Lagos to be elected to the House six times. He is also the first to serve three consecutive terms as Speaker. His tenure has been characterised by considerable political influence, loyalty to the Bola Tinubu political faction, and power struggles with state governors.
His speakership came to an abrupt end on 13 January 2025 when he was impeached by lawmakers over allegations of gross misconduct and financial misappropriation. However, he was reinstated on 3 March 2025 following intense political pressure and intervention by President Bola Tinubu. In April 2025, a Lagos High Court declared his impeachment unconstitutional, vindicating his position.
Mudashiru Obasa Profile Summary
| Personal Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa |
| Date of Birth | 11 November 1972 |
| Age | 52 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Agege, Lagos State, Nigeria |
| State of Origin | Lagos State |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Tribe/Ethnicity | Yoruba |
| Religion | Islam |
| Occupation | Lawyer, Politician, Legislator |
| Current Position | Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly |
| Political Party | All Progressives Congress (APC) |
| Constituency | Agege Constituency I |
| Education | LL.B Law, Lagos State University (2006); Nigerian Law School (2007) |
| Honorary Degree | PhD (Honoris Causa), Joseph Ayodele Babalola University |
| Spouses | Fausat Obasa, Bukola Obasa, Idayat Obasa |
| Children | Four children (from first wife Fausat) |
| Father | Pa Suleiman Atanda Obasa (deceased 2024) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million (unverified) |
| Years in Assembly | 2007–Present (18 years) |
| Years as Speaker | 2015–2025 (with brief impeachment period) |
Early Life and Education Background
Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa was born on 11 November 1972 in Agege, a prominent town in Lagos State, southwestern Nigeria. He hails from a family with deep roots in Agege, Lagos. His father, Pa Suleiman Atanda Obasa, was a respected businessman. Sadly, his father passed away in 2024 at the age of 83.
Obasa is of Yoruba ethnicity and practices Islam. Information about his siblings is not widely documented in public sources. Most accounts focus primarily on his extensive political career rather than his personal family life.
Primary and Secondary Education
Obasa received his primary education at St Thomas Aquinas Primary School, located in Surulere, Lagos. He also briefly attended State Primary School in Oyewole, Agege.
For his secondary education, he attended Archbishop Aggey Memorial Secondary School in Mushin, Ilasamaja, Lagos. He obtained his West African School Certificate (WASCE) from this institution.
University and Professional Qualifications
Obasa proceeded to Lagos State University (LASU) where he studied Law. He obtained his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree in 2006.
Following his law degree, he attended the Nigerian Law School, completing the programme in 2007. This qualification enabled him to practise law in Nigeria.
In recognition of his contributions to legislative work, Obasa received an honorary doctorate degree (PhD Honoris Causa) from Joseph Ayodele Babalola University (JABU) in Ikeji Arakeji, Osun State.
He has also attended several international training programmes. These include leadership training at Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. He also completed a certificate course on legislation at the UK Parliament.
Business Ventures and Net Worth
Mudashiru Obasa has been involved in various business ventures beyond his political career.
According to investigative reports by Sahara Reporters in 2020, Obasa owns several companies. The primary company is De Kingrun Multipurpose Nigeria Ltd, registered under the names of his father, wife, and children. Other companies allegedly linked to him include Adesav International Ventures, Quick Solution International Ventures, White Honey Enterprises, Cream on Ice Services, A.B DELCO Nigeria Company, and Fabric Splash Ventures.
These companies were allegedly used to secure contracts from the Lagos State House of Assembly and various ministries. The reports suggested that Obasa served as the sole signatory to all the bank accounts of these companies.
Estimated Net Worth
Mudashiru Obasa’s net worth is widely speculated to be approximately $5 million. However, no official documentation or verified records confirm this figure.
His wealth is believed to have been accumulated through:
Public scrutiny of his financial dealings intensified following the corruption allegations and his impeachment in January 2025. The exact details of his assets remain unclear to the public.
Political Career and Rise to Prominence
Early Political Journey
Mudashiru Obasa began his political career in 1999 when he contested the seat of councillor at Agege Local Government. He ran under the Alliance for Democracy (AD) party and won. He served as a councillor from 1999 to 2002.
His early involvement in grassroots politics provided him with valuable experience. It also helped him build strong political networks in Agege and across Lagos State.
Entry into Lagos State House of Assembly
In 2007, Obasa was elected to the Lagos State House of Assembly. He represented Agege Constituency I. This marked the beginning of what would become one of the longest legislative careers in Lagos State history.
His strong political influence and grassroots support led to multiple re-elections. He was re-elected in 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023. This made him the first legislator in Lagos to be elected to the House six consecutive times.
Committee Assignments and Leadership Roles
Throughout his time in the Assembly, Obasa served on numerous committees. These included:
His committee work demonstrated his legislative expertise. It also enhanced his influence within the Assembly.
Ascension to Speaker
On 8 June 2015, Mudashiru Obasa was elected Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. This followed the inauguration of the 8th Assembly under Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration.
His election as Speaker marked a significant milestone in his political career. He went on to become the longest-serving Speaker in Lagos State history. He holds the record of being the first person to be elected Speaker three consecutive times by a State House of Assembly in Nigeria.
As Speaker, Obasa wielded considerable power and influence. He served under two governors: Akinwunmi Ambode (2015–2019) and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (2019–2025).
Career Milestones and Achievements
| Year | Position/Achievement | Organisation |
|---|---|---|
| 1999–2002 | Councillor, Agege Local Government | Alliance for Democracy (AD) |
| 2006 | Graduated with LL.B in Law | Lagos State University |
| 2007 | Completed Nigerian Law School | Nigerian Law School |
| 2007 | Elected Member, Lagos State House of Assembly | Agege Constituency I |
| 2011 | Re-elected for 2nd Term | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| 2015 | Elected Speaker (1st Term) | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| 2015 | Re-elected for 3rd Term as Member | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| 2018 | Named to Committee for Implementation of Autonomy for State Legislature | Federal Government of Nigeria |
| 2019 | Elected Speaker (2nd Term) | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| 2019 | Re-elected for 4th Term as Member | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| 2023 | Elected Speaker (3rd Term) | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| 2023 | Re-elected for 6th Term as Member | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| 2023 | Received Honorary Citizenship of Georgia | State of Georgia, USA |
| January 2025 | Impeached as Speaker | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| March 2025 | Reinstated as Speaker | Lagos State House of Assembly |
| April 2025 | Court Declares Impeachment Unconstitutional | Lagos State High Court |
Legislative Achievements
During Obasa’s decade-long tenure as Speaker, the Lagos State House of Assembly passed numerous significant laws. Some of the notable legislative achievements include:
Key Laws Passed
Lagos State Domestic Violence Agency Law: This law aims to protect victims of domestic violence. It provides support services for those affected by abuse.
Lagos State Road Traffic Law: This legislation regulates traffic in the state. It enhances road safety for all road users.
Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps Law: Obasa initiated and oversaw the passage of this law. It created the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps to enhance security at the grassroots level.
Lagos State Local Council Administration Law (2024): This controversial law restructured local government administration. It created tensions between the House and Governor Sanwo-Olu.
Other Contributions
Obasa initiated annual stakeholder meetings to address germane issues across all Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State.
He facilitated constituency projects that improved infrastructure in Agege and across Lagos State. These included distribution of WAEC, JAMB, and GCE forms. He also provided empowerment schemes and periodic scholarship programmes for indigent students.
Power Struggles and Political Controversies
Clashes with Governor Ambode
Obasa’s relationship with former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode (2015–2019) was characterised by tension and power struggles.
Reports indicate that Obasa almost single-handedly frustrated Ambode’s administration. He blocked the governor’s budget presentation and thwarted key initiatives and proposals. These actions contributed to Ambode’s failure to secure a second term in office.
Tensions with Governor Sanwo-Olu
When Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu assumed office in 2019, similar patterns emerged. Political observers and government officials reported that Obasa refused to collaborate with the governor. In some instances, he showed open disrespect.
In 2023, under Obasa’s leadership, the Assembly rejected 16 of Sanwo-Olu’s nominees for commissioner appointments. When the governor submitted a revised list, the Assembly still dropped some nominees. This signalled a full-blown power struggle.
The 2024 Budget Presentation Incident
During the 2024 budget presentation, Obasa publicly summoned and humiliated Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat. He delivered a veiled warning: “Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.”
He followed this with a Yoruba proverb saying, “The god of iron recognises the swift ones.” These comments were widely interpreted as threats against the government.
The Governorship Ambition Declaration
In November 2024, during the presentation of the 2025 budget, Obasa made controversial remarks. He declared that he was neither too young nor too inexperienced to run for Lagos governor. He insisted that “those who have been before me are not better off.”
His statement was perceived as a direct jab at Governor Sanwo-Olu. It angered many party leaders, loyalists, and state officials. They believed Obasa’s disrespect to the governor must not go unchecked. This proved to be the final straw that led to his impeachment.
The 2020 Corruption Allegations
In 2020, Sahara Reporters published a series of reports alleging misappropriation of public funds against Obasa. The reports detailed how the Speaker allegedly awarded contracts to himself. These contracts were allegedly channelled through companies registered in the names of his family members.
EFCC Investigation
Following the allegations, Obasa was reportedly taken in for questioning by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The interrogation took place on 8 and 9 October 2020.
According to insider sources, Obasa allegedly feigned sickness during the interrogation at the EFCC’s office. This caused the interrogation to be stopped. He was taken to the EFCC office’s sick bay before being released on bail.
Obasa reportedly requested the return of his passport, ostensibly to seek medical treatment abroad. He also expressed intentions to go on Umrah (Islamic pilgrimage) to meet with Bola Tinubu in Saudi Arabia.
Obasa’s Response
Obasa denied all the allegations of corruption and financial misappropriation. However, he remained under investigation by the EFCC. Public scrutiny of his financial dealings continued throughout his tenure as Speaker.
The Impeachment Saga of January 2025
The Emergency Plenary
On 13 January 2025, while Obasa was outside the country, the Lagos State House of Assembly convened an emergency plenary session. The lawmakers were on recess after their 6 January plenary.
In the Speaker’s absence, his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, presided over the sitting. All 30 lawmakers present (out of the total 40 state lawmakers) voted to remove Obasa from office. They cited allegations of:
Election of Mojisola Meranda
After Obasa’s impeachment, the lawmakers elected Mojisola Meranda as the new Speaker. She made history as the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The Majority Leader, Noheem Adams, moved the motion for Obasa’s removal. Temitope Adewale seconded it. The motion was unanimously adopted by all 30 lawmakers present.
Obasa’s Response and Legal Challenge
Upon returning to Nigeria, Obasa rejected his impeachment. He insisted that he remained the legitimate Speaker. He argued that the impeachment was unconstitutional.
On 12 February 2025, Obasa filed a lawsuit at the Lagos State High Court. He sued the Assembly and Speaker Mojisola Meranda. He sought his immediate reinstatement, arguing that:
The Reinstatement of March 2025
Political Intervention
For 49 days, the Lagos State House of Assembly was embroiled in a leadership crisis. Legislative activities were paralysed as tensions mounted.
Reports emerged that President Bola Tinubu intervened in the crisis. The APC leadership disapproved of the impeachment for lacking party consultation. APC elders, including former Governors Bisi Akande (Osun) and Olusegun Osoba (Ogun), also intervened.
The Governance Advisory Council (GAC) was divided. There were pro-Obasa and anti-Obasa factions. Another segment, particularly from the indigenous community, supported Meranda.
The Dramatic Reversal
On 3 March 2025, after several marathon meetings with party leaders, the House reconvened. Lagos APC chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, along with other party leaders, was present to oversee the resolution of the crisis.
Emotions ran high as lawmakers moved to restore the status quo. Speaker Mojisola Meranda announced her resignation from the speakership position. She returned to her former role as Deputy Speaker.
The lawmakers reinstated Obasa as Speaker. They hailed Meranda for her courage and resilience, describing her as a heroine of democracy. The Assembly later adjourned sine die to allow for further consultations.
Terms of Reinstatement
According to sources, Obasa pledged to promote unity amongst lawmakers. He agreed to refrain from intimidation or retaliation over the leadership dispute.
As part of the agreement, he was expected to withdraw his lawsuit against Meranda and other lawmakers involved in his impeachment. APC spokesman Seye Oladejo confirmed that the matter had been put to an end following President Tinubu’s intervention.
Court Vindication in April 2025
On 16 April 2025, Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja delivered a landmark judgment. She ruled that the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa was unconstitutional.
The court declared null and void all proceedings and resolutions of the lawmakers held on 13 January 2025. The judge stated that the impeachment process violated constitutional provisions and due process.
The judgment vindicated Obasa’s position that his removal was illegal. It confirmed his argument that the Assembly had acted unconstitutionally when it impeached him whilst he was outside the country.
Personal Life: Wives, Children and Family
Mudashiru Obasa is known to have a complex family life. He practises polygamy in accordance with Islamic tradition.
Wives
Obasa is married to three wives:
Fausat Obasa: His first wife is the mother of his four children. She has been with him since his early political career.
Bukola Obasa: His second wife. Details about her background and their marriage are not widely publicised.
Idayat Obasa: His third wife. Obasa married her whilst maintaining relationships with his first two wives.
Children
Obasa has four children from his first wife, Fausat. The names of his children are largely kept private. However, reports suggest that some of his children were listed as shareholders in his company, De Kingrun Multipurpose Nigeria Ltd, even when they were underage.
Father’s Death
Obasa’s father, Pa Suleiman Atanda Obasa, passed away in 2024 at the age of 83. He was a respected businessman in Lagos. His death was a significant personal loss for Obasa.
Political Philosophy and Public Perception
Mudashiru Obasa’s political philosophy centres on loyalty to the Bola Tinubu political machinery. He has been a steadfast member of the Bourdillon faction of Lagos politics.
His leadership style has been described as authoritarian and high-handed. He commanded both respect and fear amongst lawmakers. Critics accused him of arrogance and disregard for authority. Supporters praised his strong leadership and commitment to legislative work.
Relationship with President Tinubu
Obasa’s unwavering loyalty to President Bola Tinubu has been a defining feature of his political career. This loyalty earned him immense influence and power. It also shielded him from political attacks for many years.
When Obasa faced impeachment in January 2025, it was Tinubu’s intervention that ultimately secured his reinstatement. This demonstrated the extent of Obasa’s political capital within the Tinubu camp.
Divided Public Perception
Public perception of Obasa remains deeply divided.
Supporters view him as an experienced legislator who has contributed significantly to Lagos State development. They credit him with passing important laws and overseeing critical infrastructure projects.
Critics see him as a power-drunk politician who abused his position. They accuse him of corruption, financial misappropriation, and disrespect for democratic principles. His conflicts with two successive governors reinforced this negative perception.
Honours and Awards
Throughout his career, Obasa has received numerous honours and awards:
Legacy and Impact on Lagos Politics
Mudashiru Obasa’s legacy is complex and multifaceted.
On one hand, he holds the distinction of being Lagos State’s longest-serving Speaker. He is the only person to be elected Speaker three consecutive times. His legislative achievements include the passage of important laws that have shaped Lagos State governance.
On the other hand, his tenure was marked by allegations of corruption, power struggles with governors, and authoritarian leadership. His impeachment in January 2025, though later overturned, exposed deep divisions within Lagos politics.
Obasa’s career illustrates the supremacy of party politics over legislative autonomy in Nigeria. His reinstatement demonstrated that the APC leadership wields significant power over elected officials. It showed that party supremacy can override the democratic decisions of elected representatives.
His ambition to become Lagos State Governor remains a topic of intense political speculation. Whether he will successfully translate his legislative experience into executive power remains to be seen. The emergence of Seyi Tinubu as a potential gubernatorial candidate could pose a significant challenge to any such ambitions.
As of November 2025, at 52 years old, Obasa continues to serve as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly. His political future and ultimate legacy remain works in progress.
Conclusion
Mudashiru Obasa’s biography represents one of the most dramatic and controversial political journeys in Lagos State history.
From his beginnings as a councillor in Agege Local Government to his current position as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, his career has been defined by political cunning, unwavering loyalty to Bola Tinubu, and an ability to accumulate and wield power.
His impeachment in January 2025 over allegations of corruption and abuse of office seemed to mark the end of his political dominance. However, his dramatic reinstatement in March 2025 demonstrated his political resilience. The court’s vindication in April 2025, declaring his impeachment unconstitutional, further strengthened his position.
Whether viewed as an experienced legislator who has contributed to Lagos State development or as a power-drunk politician who abused his position, Obasa remains a significant figure in Nigerian politics. His story serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between political loyalty, institutional power, and personal ambition in Nigerian governance.
As Lagos State prepares for future political transitions, Obasa’s role in shaping the state’s political landscape cannot be ignored. His journey from grassroots councillor to the most powerful legislator in Lagos history offers valuable lessons about political strategy, loyalty, and survival in Nigeria’s often turbulent political environment.