On Thursday, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, addressed speculations about his alleged governorship ambition, stating that he has not given serious thought to the idea of becoming the next governor of Lagos State. He clarified that his primary focus remains on strengthening the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, a commitment that has often been misinterpreted by his critics.
Obasa emphasized that his efforts to mobilize support for the party, particularly through the Mandate political platform, have been misconstrued by detractors as a covert plan to pursue a governorship bid. He explained that his activities are solely aimed at consolidating the party’s base and increasing its influence.
Speaking after Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presented the state’s 2025 budget, Obasa stated, “I have made it a personal responsibility to mobilize people under the Mandate platform. Unfortunately, some political detractors have twisted this to imply that I have a selfish ambition to become governor. Let me correct this false narrative: my focus is on building our party. My actions are entirely geared toward this cause.”
He also addressed the rumors about his potential candidacy, adding, “While I am not actively considering a governorship bid, this does not imply that I lack the qualifications, experience, or capability to serve as governor. Those who have previously held this position are not necessarily better than I am.”
The Speaker’s comments followed a vote of confidence passed in his leadership by all lawmakers present at the plenary session.
Earlier, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had presented the Lagos State 2025 budget, tagged the “Budget of Sustainability,” which totals N3.006 trillion. The proposed budget comprises N2.597 trillion in projected revenue and a deficit financing of N408.9 billion. The allocation is split between a recurrent expenditure of N1.239 trillion (41%) and a capital expenditure of N1.766 trillion (59%). The revenue is expected to be sourced from a combination of internally generated revenue (N1.97 trillion) and Federal transfers (N626.1 billion).
In his remarks on the budget, Speaker Obasa acknowledged the prevailing economic challenges facing Nigerians but expressed optimism about the federal government’s efforts. He appealed to the public to remain hopeful, noting that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is working to restore economic stability and foster recovery across the country.
