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| Mudashiru Obasa |
LAGOS, Nigeria – Mudashiru Obasa, the influential Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has publicly opened the door to a potential gubernatorial run, signaling a significant shift in his political career. In a recent television interview, Obasa indicated that his future ambitions are firmly tied to the directives of his political party.
The revelation came during an appearance on TVC (Television Continental), where the Speaker addressed persistent questions about his next political move. This fuels speculation about the future leadership of Nigeria's economic powerhouse as the next election cycle approaches.
From Councillor to Governor? Obasa’s Political Trajectory
Reflecting on his long tenure in public service, which began at the local government level as a councillor, Obasa acknowledged that a governorship bid is a "natural progression." He had previously mentioned that the logical next step after his role as Speaker would be either the Senate or the Governor's office.
When pressed on whether these ambitions still stand, Obasa confirmed his aspirations but was quick to defer to the party machinery.
"Every politician has ambitions, but you get to a stage where you cannot determine what comes next," Obasa stated. "If you believe in the party structure, you understand that it’s about consultation, consensus, and the leadership’s direction."
This emphasis on party supremacy suggests that any official declaration will follow extensive internal negotiations and alignment with the party's overall strategy for Lagos State.
A Fifth Term Unlikely: Signaling a New Chapter
In a clear hint that his time in the State Assembly is nearing its end, Obasa strongly suggested he would not seek re-election for his legislative seat.
Responding to a direct question about contesting for a fifth term, he simply replied, “Not really.” This statement points to a deliberate pivot away from the legislature and toward a potential executive role, contingent on his party's support.
This development follows a period of political challenge for Obasa, who recently navigated a leadership crisis that temporarily unseated him before he was swiftly reinstated as Speaker. His comments are seen by many analysts as the first step in consolidating his influence for a larger political objective.