Segun Atanda/
Speaker Mudashiru Obasa of the Lagos State House of Assembly is under intense scrutiny following allegations of financial mismanagement involving ₦44 billion allocated for vehicles and capital projects over two years.
Critics, including lawmakers and concerned Lagosians, are raising serious questions about transparency and accountability in the Assembly’s financial operations.
Controversial Vehicle Allocations
A significant portion of the controversy stems from the Assembly’s vehicle budget.
According to available official records on the Lagos House of Assembly Budget Performance, in 2023, ₦30.19 billion was allocated for vehicles, including official cars, utility buses, and backup vehicles. Another ₦13.33 billion was earmarked for vehicles in 2024. However, investigations reveal that no vehicles were purchased in 2023, and only a small fraction of the 2024 allocation has been accounted for.
This lack of tangible outcomes has sparked public outrage. Lagosians are asking why such a massive budget for vehicles has yielded no visible results. Many are now questioning if the funds were diverted for other purposes under Speaker Obasa’s administration.
Dubious Capital Projects
The financial irregularities extend beyond vehicles. Speaker Obasa’s administration also allocated funds for projects deemed questionable by critics:
- ₦1.1 billion for properties in 2023: Critics argue this expenditure was excessive, particularly when essential sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure are underfunded.
- ₦126 million in 2024 for properties in Abuja: This allocation has raised eyebrows, with Lagosians questioning why the state’s funds are being spent outside its jurisdiction.
- ₦15.65 billion for office construction in 2023 and 2024: The necessity of this project is unclear, as many Assembly offices were reportedly functional before the upgrade.
According to critics, these expenditures suggest a troubling pattern of fiscal mismanagement and misplaced priorities, fueling public anger.
Rising Opposition Within the Assembly
Obasa’s leadership is reportedly facing growing resistance from within the Assembly. New lawmakers who joined in 2023, along with some older members, are now challenging his financial decisions and demanding greater transparency. Sources reveal that Obasa’s alleged divide-and-rule tactics are beginning to backfire, as his critics gain momentum.
Tensions reportedly came to a head during the recent 2025 budget presentation, where Obasa’s defiance of party leaders and the governor shocked many in attendance.
Public Outcry Over Misplaced Priorities
The allegations against Speaker Obasa have amplified public frustration over the state’s governance. Lagosians are demanding answers to critical questions:
- Why was ₦30.19 billion allocated for vehicles in 2023 when no cars were purchased?
- Why is ₦126 million being spent on properties in Abuja while Lagos faces pressing infrastructural needs?
- What is the justification for spending billions on office construction when existing facilities are reportedly functional?
Civil society groups and concerned citizens argue that the misuse of public funds under Obasa’s watch represents a betrayal of trust, particularly as Lagosians grapple with economic hardships.
Calls for Accountability
Amid the mounting allegations, Lagosians and advocacy groups are calling on Speaker Obasa to provide a detailed breakdown of the Assembly’s expenditures over the past two years. They argue that without accountability, governance in Lagos risks becoming a tool for personal enrichment rather than public service.
Some critics are urging the Assembly to reconsider Obasa’s leadership, warning that his continued tenure could undermine Lagos’ development and erode public confidence in the legislative process.
The Road Ahead
The unfolding controversy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency in public office. As Lagosians await answers, the pressure on Speaker Obasa and the Assembly is unlikely to abate.
The future of Lagos’ governance hangs in the balance, and citizens are watching closely to ensure their voices are heard.
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