OBASA YOUTH ALLIANCE RECEIVES VOLUNTEERS FOR UPCOMING OBASA YOUTH CRUSADE

 By Yomi Durojaye 

 In a significant move towards the successful execution of the upcoming 3rd edition of the Obasa Youth Crusade, the Obasa Youth Alliance (OYA) held a crucial general meeting on Sunday, September 1, 2024. The gathering, which brought together a diverse array of youth groups, including OYA executives, Ward coordinators, Zonal coordinators, Street captains, All Progressives Congress (APC) youth leaders, and stakeholders from Agege and Orile Agege, was marked by an atmosphere of unity and determination.

The meeting kicked off with an opening address from the Director-General of OYA, Comrade Ademosu Jamiu, who expressed his deep gratitude to all present. He delivered a goodwill message from the convener of OYA, Hon. Oluwagbenga Abiola Omaco  (Agbelebu), who commended the youth for their dedication and commitment during the last meeting. Hon. Gbenga Abiola urged the participants to maintain their enthusiasm and readiness for this year’s crusade, emphasizing the critical role they play in its success.

During the meeting, Agege APC Youth Leader, Comrade Jegbe Johnson, appealed to the attendees to remain committed as he emphasized the importance of the volunteer committees being essential for the smooth execution of this year’s crusade. 

A key focus of the meeting was the formation of volunteer committees, which are deemed essential for the smooth execution of the crusade. Comrade Jegbe Johnson emphasized that joining this volunteer committee is a voluntary service and encouraged only those willing to serve with dedication to enlist. He underscored the importance of the volunteer committee, urging members to approach their assignments with the highest level of priority and responsibility.

The response was overwhelmingly positive, with numerous attendees registering their interest in joining the volunteer committees.

The meeting saw the presence of several key figures, including Agege APC Youth Leader Hon. Jegbe Johnson (Gezus), Orile Agege Youth Leader Comrade Arsenal, Deputy Director-General and Planning Committee Chairman Comrade Akinola Sasanya, Agege OYA Coordinator Comrade Oyewale Sunday (Skima), Orile Agege OYA Coordinator Comrade Gbenga Osolana, and Hon. Muyiwa Likinyo. Additionally, all APC Youth Leaders at the ward level from both Agege and Orile Agege, OYA Ward Coordinators, Zonal Coordinators, Street Captains, and representatives from youth organizations within and outside Agege were in attendance.

Despite the progress made in the formation of the volunteer committee, the leadership emphasized that the committee remain open to any youth, youth group, or stakeholder willing to contribute to the development and success of this year’s crusade. The OYA continues to foster an inclusive environment, encouraging broader participation to ensure the crusade’s impact is both far-reaching and profound.

Scheduled for November 10, 2024, at Agege Stadium, the 3rd edition of the Obasa Youth Crusade promises to be a vibrant and inspiring event, celebrating the empowerment of youth and the significant contributions of Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa to the development of Lagos State.

DigitalSkills: OYA Convener, Hon. Gbenga Abiola Secures Slots For Agege Youths

 By Yomi Durojaye 

The Vice Chairman of Agege Local Government and Convener Obasa Youth Alliance (OYA) Hon. Gbenga Abiola (Agbelebu), has secured slots for Agege and Lagos Youth in the ongoing Skills Acquisition at HoneyTreat Academy to study digital skills.

 DigitalSkills: OYA Convener, Hon. Gbenga Abiola Secure Slots For Agege Youths

Speaking with AgegePulse Magazine in a brief interview, Hon. Abiola urged Lagos Youth, Agege in particular to  explore new horizons and have the freedom to make their own rightful decisions in life and take advantage of trending new market of programming.

He said, 'The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), in partnership with Honey Treat Academy (HTA), is offering digital skills training in courses such as Digital Marketing, Data Analysis, Software Engineering, and Photography. Hon. Gbenga Abiola (Agbelebu), the convener of Obasa Youth Alliance (OYA) and Vice Chairman of Agege, has successfully secured slots for youths from Agege to benefit from this opportunity.

"Participants who complete the training will also have the chance to engage in industrial training, receiving a 30,000 naira monthly stipend, along with a 2,000 naira daily stipend during the training period of 3 months.

"This initiative is designed to equip youths with essential digital skills and provide financial support during their learning journey.

"Congratulations to you all in the new journey to be a data scientists and other problems solving skills in the world.

Nationwide Protest: Lagos Speaker, Obasa, Dr. Wale Ahmed, Agege Leaders Engage Residents

...Say Agege enjoying democratic dividends

- religious leaders, traditional rulers say no to protest

AgegePulse Magazine 

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and other leaders in the Agege area of Lagos met on Wednesday emphasising the need for unity, resilience and patience as the country anticipates a nationwide protest.

The leaders also met with various youth groups in the area reminding them that President Bola Tinubu is working to resolve the challenges facing Nigeria.

The 10-day protest is expected to commence on Thursday, August 1, 2024, but Dr. Obasa said Agege is a special part of Lagos where residents have experienced democratic dividends, especially in the area of infrastructure which has boosted businesses.

The Speaker urged the leaders to advise and plead with their children and other residents against engaging in any activity that could incite violence in the state.

"We are enjoying the dividends of democracy in Agege especially and our governor is trying for us. There are a lot of developmental projects ongoing in Agege. If the government is doing all these, why would any of us want to be combative against the government?

"The world is just coming out of COVID-19 and there are global crises and wars. So it is not just about Nigeria. If you go to Sudan, close to us here, landlords have forgone their homes. Libya was once like a European country, go there today. We all need to be patient.

"Our pastors and Imams here, we should teach messages of peace, unity and patience every time we preach especially at this time. 

"Inflation is a general issue, it is not isolated. The President is seriously working on it. He is just one year in office and this is too short to resolve all the problems," Obasa told the stakeholders including religious and traditional leaders, heads of markets, civil society groups, artisans and community development associations.

On his part, Wale Ahmed, a member of the House of Representatives, emphasised the unity in Agege while expressing optimism that the youth would not be part of a protest that has a tendency to escalate into violence.

"Even if those participating in the protest try to provoke you, just ignore," he told the gathering.

The chairmen of the two local government councils in the area, Chief Ganiyu Egunjobi and Johnson Babatunde, reiterated the need for the residents to protect government infrastructure adding that this can be done with their non-participation in the protest.

Egunjobi recalled the last EndSARS protest that resulted in the burning of vehicles and other infrastructures.

"Police stations were set ablaze and the guns were taken away.

"So, let us all speak to ourselves and understand ourselves. The President is just a year in office," he said.

The Alaige of Agege, Oba Ambaliu Agbedeyi, who spoke on behalf of traditional rulers, said Agege is lucky to have good political leaders who have the interests of the residents at heart.

He prayed against any evil plots against their domains.

Also in attendance are Agege LG chairman, Hon. Ganiyu Egunjobi, Orile Agege LCDA Chair, Johnson Babatunde , Hon Taofeek Adaranijo Mhr , Ab Aileru , Oluwagbenga Abiola Omaco , Hon Jubreel Ayodeji Abdulkareem , Dr. Wale Ahmed , Fatai Olagoke Ajibola amongst others.

Lagos Assembly Pleads With Youth Over Planned Protest

 AgegePulse Magazine 

- asks Sanwo-Olu to organise stakeholders' meeting

Obasa

The Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday held a plenary session calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to take major steps to avert the planned nationwide protest in the State.

The lawmakers, in a 'Matter of Urgent Public Importance' brought by Majority Leader Noheem Adams, noted the devastation caused by the EndSARS protest of 2020 in Lagos and urged the governor to organise townhall meetings with major stakeholders to fashion out ways to calm the youth and those who plan to support proposed protest.

One of the meetings, according to the motion of the House, should be held between the governor and elected political leaders including senators, members of the House of Representatives and state lawmakers while a second meeting should be held with traditional rulers, religious leaders, heads of market, those in the transport sectors and related stakeholders.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, said it was necessary for state governments to do the needful to calm frayed nerves and ensure protection of lives and property.

Dr. Obasa said Lagos was still grappling with the impact of the EndSARS protest just as he appealed to the youth to be patient with the government of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu that is making effort to see a better Nigeria that would benefit the citizens.

The Speaker noted that Kenya is currently in a terrible situation adding that the crises in Sudan and Syria started in the same manner.

He commended the commissioner of police in Lagos, Adegoke Fayoade, for meeting with community heads over the planned protest.

Obasa called for an urgent meeting with all leaders, including religious, traditional and related organisations in the state for discussion that would help dissuade the youth from engaging in the protest.

Earlier in his motion, Hon. Adams (Eti-Osa 1) drew the attention of his colleagues to the planned protest.

"I want to plead with our people to shelve this protest," he said noting that President Tinubu had shown that he is ready to listen to the citizens, especially as he has raised the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000.

On his part, Hon. Kehinde Joseph expressed worry that the proposed protesters do not have leaders who can be discussed with.

He urged for patience stressing that whatever is happening in the country "affects us all."

Hon. Sa'ad Olumoh said President Tinubu understands the problem in Nigeria and was taking the right steps against the country's collapse.

He also urged Nigerians to start focusing on governors because federal allocations to states have grown under the President.

Other lawmakers who spoke during the debates urged parents to persuade their wards from joining the protest or allowing themselves to be used to commit crimes.

Why We Are Successful At Lagos Assembly, Obasa Reveals

AgegePulse Magazine 

The Lagos State House of Assembly has become the most successful state parliament in Nigeria because of its reliance on God, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa has said.

Why We Are Successful At Lagos Assembly, Obasa Reveals

Addressing guests including the First Lady of Lagos, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, traditional rulers and political leaders, the Speaker added that the House achieved its 2023 goals as a result of the diligence, commitment and dedication of lawmakers and staff. 

Dr. Obasa said this on Wednesday at the 21st anniversary of the annual thanksgiving and end of the year party held at the Lagos State House of Assembly.

"It is this commitment to God for excellence and unwavering faith that has led us to the successes we have achieved thus far.

"As we gather here today, we must acknowledge the incredible progress we have made as an Assembly and as individuals throughout the year.

"We have worked tirelessly, with dedication and integrity, to ensure that the needs and aspirations of our constituents are met. Proverbs 16:3 reminds us that if we commit our work to the Lord, our plans will succeed.

"Today, we come together in unity and gratitude, knowing that our collective efforts have not gone unnoticed," Obasa said.

Quoting James 1:17, the Speaker noted that the Lagos Assembly has become "a House above the common standards of excellence.

"Across the country, we are seen as passionate, a true reflection of the legislature as the focal point of democracy and an arm truly committed to the State's progress."

The Speaker, who commended his colleagues and the management for their dedication to duty, urged them to continue to strive for excellence so as to bring more positive changes to the society.

In his sermon on 'the spirit of excellence', Prophet Peter Adeniyi Olowoporoku of the Love of Christ Chapel Ministries, urged Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of discipline and constantly work to stand out in all that they do.

The event witnessed various guest artists including Evangelist Adeyinka Alaseyori.

Breaking: Sanwo-Olu's Nominees: Lagos Lawmakers Confirm Dr. Afolabi, 14 Others, Reject 2

 AgegePulse Magazine

Sanwo-Olu's Nominees:  Lagos Lawmakers Confirm Dr. Afolabi, 14 Others, Reject 2

 

The Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday confirmed 15 out of the second batch of 18 nominees sent by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently.

The confirmation happened after Hon. Mojeed Fatai, Chief Whip and chairman of the sceening committee, laid a report of the exercise before the House.

At a sitting presided over by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, the lawmakers rejected Engr. Olalere Odusote, Mr. Samuel Egube, and Hon. Tolani Sule Akibu.

However, the House resolved to step down the confirmation of Hon. Tolani Sule Akibu for another day.

Dr. Obasa, commended the committee saying the members did a thorough job screening the nominees. His position was supported by the lawmakers present at plenary.

Those confirmed include:

Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen

Mr. Oluwaseun Oriyomi Osiyemi

Prof. Akinola Emmanuel Abayomi

Dr. Oluwarotimi Omotola Wahab Fashola

Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat Ambrose-Medem

Mrs. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe

Mrs. Bolaji Cécilia Dada

Mrs. Barakat Akande Bakare

Mr. Olugbenga Omotosho

Mr. Mosopefoluwa George

Dr. Yekini Nurudeen Agbaje

Dr. Olumide Oluyinka

Mr. Abayomi Samson Oluyomi

Dr. Iyabode Oyeyemi Ayoola

Hon. Sola Shakirudeen Giwa

Rejected Nominees: We Can't Be Intimidated, Lagos Assembly Declares

 

- says there are plans to attack Speaker Obasa, lawmakers

- says no rift between Governor and Speaker

Sanwo-Olu and Obasa

The Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday revealed that there are plans by some people to attack Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and other lawmakers over the recent screening and rejection of some cabinet nominees sent by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The House, however, said its action concerning the nominees was in tandem with the constitution, which stipulates its responsibilities and, as such, would not succumb to threats and intimidations, including planned sponsored protests and analysis by some civil society groups and activists.

It also said it had refrained itself from revealing all that it discovered during the screening of the nominees while warning that "those who live in glass houses should be conscious not to throw stones."

"Before today, I had been reliably informed of the plan to attack the Speaker based on the decision of the House concerning the nominees of the Governor, particularly the rejected ones," Dr. Obasa said during plenary adding that he had been inundated with calls from people and members of the House.

The Speaker stressed that the House does not have any fight with Sanwo-Olu or the executive arm as projected by some people, who may not be aware of the actual reasons for the rejection of the nominees.

"There is this erroneous belief that we are waging war against the Governor. There is no basis for me and the House to fight the Governor. I will continue to say that the Governor is a brother and colleague in the Lagos project and service to the people of our State.

"The Governor and I have been around in the system for long. While he was SA to the former Deputy Governor, Femi Pedro, I was in this House as chairman, Committee on Rural Development. He was SA on Establishment and Pensions and I was chairman, House Committee on Public Accounts (Local Governments). While he was heading LSDPC, I was chairman, Committee on Economic Planning and Budget. Then, I became the Speaker and when he became the Governor, I remained the Speaker. So it's been a long journey together.

"But I wonder why anytime the House says no to a particular request of the Governor, it is taken by some people to mean there is a fight with the Governor. This House has passed so many resolutions that the executive arm refused to carry out, but people don't see that as something to talk about and the House does not raise eyebrows. So I don't know what brings the erroneous belief that the House is fighting the Governor, who is our brother and who we will continue to work with.

"However, we have a constitutional responsibility. Just as the Governor has the responsibility to inform the House about his nominees, the House has the responsibility to say 'yes' or 'no' which we have exercised by confirming some and denying some and we have our reasons for saying 'no' to some of the nominees.

"The House, as a body, has refrained itself from exposing what it discovered during the screening exercise and we are not going to be forced to spill to the public," Dr. Obasa said.

Concerning the rejection of Prof. Akin Ababyomi, former health commissioner, Obasa said considerations went beyond his efforts in the fight against COVID-19 which he described as an isolated issue in the challenged health sector of the State.

"Before Prof. Abayomi, there were Leke Pitan, Dr. Jide Idris and others. COVID-19 was an isolated case that was considered. Before COVID-19, we had Ebola which was also taken care of under Babatunde Fashola.

"Beyond all these, we are the representatives of the people, their mouthpieces, eyes and ears. The health sector of Lagos is not just about COVID-19. We have general hospitals and other health care centres around the State. What can be said about them?

"Before Engineer Aramide Adeyoye, we also had Engineer Ganiyu Johnson and Dr. Obafemi Hamzat as Commissioner for Works and under whom the Ikoyi-Victoria Island link bridge was built while Babatunde Fashola was Governor. Under Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as Governor, there was masaive infrastructural development too.

"So we must stop making allusions concerning somethings we do not understand. They mentioned the former c

Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotosho and his experience. But how about actions in office?" Obasa asked.

The Speaker added that as a politician whose party is in power, the priority of those in government should be the interest of the people. 

He urged those planning to sponsor actions against the House to realise that protests and sponsored articles would not make the House rescind its decision.

"The civil society that is threatening to protest should do so because it is a constitutional right. But we are not going to be threatened or intimidated. We have said no, but if there is a convincing or germane reason for us to reverse our decision, we will, but not by threats.

"It is because we are successful as politicians that is why the technocrats are being appointed. And to our own estimation, if they have not done well, we have right to say no and we have said no.

"We don't want instigations and conflicts, the executive and the House are working together; we are brothers and colleagues; we will continue to work together but we need to caution fourth columnists not to instigate crisis. And those that are living in glass houses need to be careful," he warned.

Eromosele Ebhomele

Media Assistant to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Jubilation As Sanwo-Olu Unveils Pen Cinema FlyOver | AgegePulse Magazine

 

…Tinubu: ‘I’m Proud, Sanwo-Olu Has Shown Excellent Results’

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu flanked by Gov. Sanwo-Olu and Obasa at theach official opening of Pen Cinema Bridge

…Five Arterial Roads Network Completed In Agege, Also Commissioned

The long-sought relief from choking vehicular gridlocks has finally come the way of residents in the Agege-Abule Egba axis of Lagos State. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday, unveiled Pen Cinema Bridge and five arterial road networks in the area, formally opening the infrastructure for public use.

The commissioning marked fulfilment of another campaign promise made by Sanwo-Olu to residents, who daily endured pain in commuting within the axis in the last four years.

All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, had the honour to inaugurate the projects, which he described as “needed catalyst” for the resuscitation of economic activities on the axis.

The construction of the 1.4-kilometre long flyover was part of the recommendation at the Lagos Economic Summit (Ehingbeti) under ex-Governor Babatunde Fashola’s administration, as a strategic intervention to achieving significant traffic improvement in the densely populated area. The last administration created the right-of-way and set up the structural beams; Governor Sanwo-Olu substantially completed civil works on the bridge.

The imposing overpass ascends from Oba Ogunji Road and drops at Oke Koto area of Agege. The bridge also opens to the old Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway through Abule Egba.

Tumultuous crowd of joyous residents joined Gov. Sanwo-Olu and members of the State’s cabinet in handing over the bridge for public use.

The Governor described the delivery of the project as a “landmark progress” in the State Government’s drive towards eliminating bottlenecks causing suffocating gridlocks and relieving residents of stress associated with commuting on roads.

Sanwo-Olu said the two-pronged approach, which his administration deployed to deliver critical infrastructure, gave priority to continuation and completion of strategic projects, regular maintenance and construction of new ones in line with the State’s Strategic Transport Master Plan (STMP).

He said his Government decided to continue the project, because it was in tune with the first pillar of his administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda, which targets the provision of roads for expedited economic growth and seamless mobility.

He said: “I am delighted to stand before Lagosians today to celebrate the delivery of this landmark project, which again, reflects our administration’s belief in the principle of continuity in governance and demonstrates our commitment to the urgency of infrastructure development and the welfare of our people. The completion of this flyover and five network of roads sends a strong message about our determination to accelerate our futuristic vision for a world class transportation system complemented by a good network of roads for social and economic transformation.

“In order to address the challenge of huge traffic burden, the immediate past administration initiated and commenced the construction of a precast and pre-stressed reinforced concrete of 1.4km dual-carriage flyover and ramp, with road works across the Agege-Pen Cinema Intersection. As of May 2019 when this administration was inaugurated, this project was at about 20 per cent progress. With the delivery of this bridge, which is complemented with traffic signalisation and drainage channels, we have resolved the perennial traffic arising from huge human and vehicular movement from Agege-Pen Cinema Intersection towards Abule Egba, Fagba, Oke Koto and Iyana Ipaja.”

To achieve a quick turnaround in commuting on the bridge, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that his Government identified and reconstructed five strategic arterial roads with good connectivity to adjoining roads that could serve as alternative bypasses to other routes in periods of heavy traffic.

The Governor said since road transportation remained crucial to economic growth and physical development, he believed the project would inject more life into socio-economic activities of people living and doing business in the area.

He said: “A key outcome from the strategic execution of this magnificent Pen Cinema Flyover project is that our administration has again demonstrated the priority it accords to the wellbeing of our people. It is a true test of our commitment to the Greater Lagos vision and a reflection of the achievability of our audacious socio-economic goals. In the course of implementing this project, we created jobs for about 380 people including engineers, supervisors, artisans and others- a clear indicator of the nexus between infrastructure development and employment generation.”

Sanwo-Olu pledged that his administration would not relent in provision of infrastructure for coordinated and sustainable development that would help to improve the State’s performance on the Ease of Doing Business index.

Tinubu expressed confidence in Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, noting that the Governor had stabilised and brought Lagos back on a focused journey, despite economic turbulence occasioned by Coronavirus (COVID-19) and coordinated destruction of the State’s assets.

The APC National Leader, who described Sanwo-Olu as “a brilliant captain”, praised the collaboration between the executive and the legislative arms in the State.

He said: “This is a commendable achievement by Sanwo-Olu, who has further brought Lagos on the path of progress, given the economic resuscitation this infrastructure will bring on this axis and entire Lagos. May you continue to think and perform to demonstrate excellent results as you have done today.”

Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Aramide Adeyoye, said the axis on which the flyover is sited is one of the busiest in vehicular activities in Lagos, saying the bridge would bring back convenience to millions of residents commuting in the area.

She said: “The entire project consists of a dual carriageway, with a bridge component of two lanes with 3.65 cm width in either direction. The road component consists of service lanes on either side of the bridge with median, kerbs and walkways that are complete with signalised traffic system. There are junction improvements with LED streetlight features.”

Speaker, Lagos House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, who represents Agege in the Assembly, described Governor Sanwo-Olu as “a proactive, wonderful performer”, who always accomplishes any projects he promises.

The adjoining roads commissioned with the flyover are Iju Road, Oba Ogunji Road, Agunbiade Road, Oke Koto Intersection and Iyana Ipaja link road.

Obasa’s Leadership Has Impacted Aworis In Lagos, Says Olota | AgegePulse Magazine

The Olota of Otta, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Adeyemi AbdulKabir Obalanlege, [Lanlege Ekun II] has bestowed the traditional title of Jagunmolu Taiyese of Otta Awori Kingdom on the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa.

Olota and Obasa flanked by guests

Praising the Speaker for the successes of the Lagos Assembly, Obalanlege stressed that the activities of the House had also positively impacted on the Awori people in the state.

Olota urged the Speaker to see and take Otta as his second home.

Thanking Olota for the gesture, Obasa commended the monarch for propagating the Yoruba tradition, saying that had reflected in the way the monarch and the Olota-In-Council spoke Yoruba language all through the event.

Dr Obasa urged traditional rulers in the Southwestern part of Nigeria to continue protecting the Traditional and Cultural Heritage, part of which is constant speaking of the Yoruba language.

How do we do this? It is by using our mother-tongue to communicate with whosoever the visitor is, no matter the status and wherever he comes from’.

According to the Speaker, it was the drive to preserve the language, custom and culture of the Yoruba race that necessitate the decision of the Lagos State House of Assembly to carry out plenary activities in the native language on Thursdays.

He said this would help more residents to understand some of the laws that guide their daily activities.

Dr Obasa noted that the House had recently agreed that all the laws passed by the House would now be translated into Yoruba for the benefit of those we are representing.

The Speaker also urged parents to speak the language at home, as stressing that ‘understanding ones native language does not hinder one from being able to speak English fluently’. 

Obasa To School Kids: Never Get Discouraged, I Grew Up Like You | AgegePulse Magazine

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, has admonished children never to give up on their dreams no matter their background.

Obasa, gave the advice when he visited his alma mater, St. Thomas Aquinas School, in the Mushin area of Lagos where he celebrated his 48th birthday with the pupils.

"I started off like you all and you are indeed the future we rely on. Do not let anything deter you.

"I am of a humble background; I struggled through life and today, I am the Speaker of Lagos State.

"You can be a governor, a Speaker, a doctor  a lawyer, an engineer, a great footballer or anything you want to be in life," he said while urging them not to allow anything discourage them.

The Speaker, who took a tour around the school, promised to assist in renovating the parts that I need facelift. He also promised to equip the school with the necessary furniture.

He thanked the teachers for their efforts in bringing up kids in the school despite the various challenges they face in the course of their jobs.

Obasa also visited the State Primary School in the Oyewole area of Agege, Lagos where he told the pupils parts of his story.

"When I was in this school as a child, I never had the opportunity of meeting a dignitary or had anyone from government visit us.

"Today, I chose to visit you so you will have your priority set right, and your dreams aligned.

"You all can be great. You all can be successful beyond my achievements as the Speaker of Lagos State," he said. @ Lagos State House of Assembly

Lagos Speaker denies contracts scam claims

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, Monday denied allegations that he was laundering money through contract scams.

Obasa described as “absurd, abusive” and “malicious” the claims that he awarded contracts to himself through companies registered in the names of his father, wife and children.

The allegations, he said, were made by online news medium Sahara Reporters in a publication titled “Exposed: Speaker of Lagos Assembly, Obasa, Awards Contracts to self through Company Registered in son’s name”.

But, Obasa’s counsel, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, in an April 30 letter seen by The Nation, said none of the firms mentioned by the publication had ever been engaged or awarded any contract by the lawmakers.

He demanded that Sahara Reporters publisher, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, retract the story within seven days and apologise, otherwise face a N1 billion defamation lawsuit.

The letter, ‘Demand for retraction of defamatory statements published against and concerning the person of Rt. Hon, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa and apology for the publication, reads in part:

Pedro said although the lawmakers had already denied the “said false and malicious publication on social media platforms” the online medium repeated the claims elsewhere.

“In your subsequent publication of 25th March 2020 captioned ‘Exclusive: Tinubu, GAC back Lagos Assembly Speaker, Obasa, over suspension of Lawmakers, corruption’ you repeated the same malicious statement concerning our client…” Pedro said.

According to him, the publication had damaged Obasa’s reputation globally.

He added: In the circumstance, it is our client’s instruction and we hereby demand of you, within 7 days of receipt of this letter a retraction of the said false, malicious and defamatory publication against our client through your online publication, social media platforms and three (3) National Newspapers circulating in Nigeria.

“You are also to tender a written unreserved apology to our client for the publication. TAKE NOTICE that, if you fail, refuse or neglect to meet our client’s humble  request within the stipulated number of days, we have his further instruction to commence a legal action against you and your organization for the malicious defamatory publication and to claim N1,000,000,000.00 (One Billion Naira) damages.”

Lagos Speaker Obasa Reiterates No Crisis In Lagos Assembly

AgegePulse Magazine

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashir Ajayi Obasa on Monday 16, 2020 has reiterated his earlier statement that there is no crisis or whatsoever at the assembly.

Obasa made the statement at their plenary session where a vote of confidence was passed on him by the 35 lawmakers present at the session.

“There is no crisis in the Lagos House of Assembly. We have 30 something members sitting here at the plenary today. If there’s crisis, we won’t have these numbers sitting here.

“We don’t have crisis. The fact that one or two people sat somewhere to write rubbish doesn’t mean we have one.

“We had a sitting on Monday, Tuesday and parliamentary on Thursday and another sitting today. So where is the crisis? There is no crisis in this house and there won’t be crisis. We took decision in the interest of Lagos and Lagosians and if there’s need to take such decision again, we would,” he said.

LAGOS ASSEMBLY SET UP COMMITTEE OVER SUSPENDED MEMBERS

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State House of  Assembly on Thursday set up a committee to look into the recent removal of two principal officers and the suspension of two members.

The House took the decision at a special parliamentary held within the Assembly complex.

The Committee is headed by Hon. Ibrahim Layode, a senior lawmaker from Badagry Constituency 1.

Speaking after the special parliamentary, the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Publicity, Strategy and Security, Hon. Tunde Braimoh, noted that what concerns the House currently is a resolution of the action of the House concerning the affected lawmakers.

"Those who are being reprimanded are our colleagues, they are not outcasts, and we belong to the same political party.

"We are mindful that the image of the House is at stake and we want to tell you that the people affected are not outcasts, they are our colleagues.

"The committee headed by Hon. Ibrahim Layode is looking at the amicable solution to the matter.

"All the issues about offices, access and others would be addressed by the committee," Braimoh said.

The Information Committee chairman, while briefing House correspondents after the special parliamentary in the presence of Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and other members, added the election of the two replacements for the impeached principal officers followed due process.

According to him, the only two offices that are constitutionally recognised are those of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker.

Others,he said, are done in-house.

"They are nothing to worry about, they were done accordingly. All that we did were done according to Order 10 Rules 68 to 72 of the Business Rules of the House.

"We are in the process of conflict resolution. We don't want to talk about what constitute gross insubordination and indiscipline.

"All the negativity that they are spreading about is exaggerated.

"There would be conflict and this is part of any society. That does not mean there is a sharp division or there is break down of law and order in the House," Braimoh explained.

"The Speaker is here, the Deputy Speaker is here, all the principal officers are here and all the other lawmakers are here, apart from those that have other things to do and those that are under suspension that are not here.

"There is no problem that is beyond solution. It is just that when things are working there could be some disagreement here and there, that does not mean that we will go for the jugular," he said.

On his part, the new Deputy Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Noheem Adams, explained that his emergence as a principal officer was based on the decision of the lawmakers and that he was not desperate.

The new Chief Whip of the Assembly, Hon. Mojisola Meranda, also noted that the House is one big family and that there is no rift among the lawmakers.

Just In: Ambode Loses Bid To Stop Probe By Lawmakers Over Purchase Of 820 Buses

Justice Yetunde Adesanya of an Ikeja High Court on Thursday struck out a suit filed by former Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos, seeking to stop his probe by the state Assembly over purchase of 820 buse s for Bus Reform Project.

Ambode

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Adesanya ruled that the ad-hoc committee set up to investigate Ambode was a fact-finding committee.

According to the judge an investigation is not an indictment.

“The claimant (Ambode) has not been indicted. An invitation by an agency of government cannot in anyway cause a breach of the threat of the fundamental rights of the claimant.

“I hereby find that the claimant’s action is an invitation to the court to cripple the legislative exercise of the statutory power of the Lagos State House of Assembly under Section 128 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution.

“That is not the function of the court, and no court of law should accede such invitation. The claimant’s suit is hereby struck out,” she said.
NAN reports that Ambode had instituted the civil suit against the State House of Assembly, its Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, and the House Clerk, Mr A.A. Sanni.

Other respondents are Mr Fatai Mojeed, the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee set up by the House to probe the procurement of the buses, and eight members of the committee.

The Enigma Of Lagos Speaker, Obasa

 By KUNLE AWOSIKA  

Pragmatic and sagacious politician, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, since he came on the political turf, has never ceased to amaze political pundits, all of which point to the undeniable fact of his ascendancy to the speakership of the LSHA for an unprecedented second tenure, albeit against all odds.

The Agege 1 constituency fifth term representative in the vibrant Lagos legislative house has a knack for making waves at any political forum. Even his fellow members in the House have attested to this by passing a vote of confidence on him by assuring him of their total support in the remaining years of the 9th Assembly

This is because the political titan of sort has continued to hold the state legislative arm as one, thus making the LSHA a reference point to other states’ Houses of Assembly in the country. Today, Obasa has stealthily emerged as an emerging force in the political firmament of Lagos politics, and this is no hyperbole, as Obasa is virtually a recurring decimal in most decisions taken at his party, APC. Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa has also been amplifying via his intensive leadership of the party under his watch, on account of his largely unassailable road to an unprecedented fifth term as Honourable member, and foremost principal officer of the LSHA.

To boot, it is very clear that this man with uncommon political mien has gained so much power and influence within the party and even the House which he supremely superintends and wields so much authority. Obasa is now fully in power and the party dares not take any decision without his input or consent. The deeply grass-rooted politician enjoys so much favour and preference for the plum post across all divides in his party.

 The sagacious and politically-astute lawmaker has mastered the ropes so well that he is now very instrumental in any decision-making process at both his constituency and the House, nay the Executive arm of the government in Lagos State.

Airwaves report

Fallout Of Budget Leads To Several Insinuations -Lagos Speaker, Obasa

AgegePulse Magazine

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa has said that the fallout of the presentation of the 2019 Budget by the state government has led to several insinuations in some quarters.

Obasa, who was reacting to the presentation of the 2019 Budget by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday, stated that the fallout of the budget brawl has led to series of negative publications both on social media and in the print media.
The Speaker stressed that the publication was being sponsored by "a faceless group calling themselves the Legislative Probity and Accountability (LPA) led by one Olu Fajana with its pseudonym."

He added that this started immediately the misunderstanding between the Executive and Legislative in respect of the Y2019 budget; which he said meant that such could not be ruled out to have emanated from the Executive.
"A section of the media has even been mischievously misled into sensationally writing all manners of write-ups against this assembly.

"Some of our friends in the media are personalizing the issue thereby
misinforming the public.

"The fact of the matter is that the issue is between one arm of government and another. What was at stake then was nothing but the matter of appropriation.
"Unfortunately, no one from the Executive has risen to refute the
baseless allegations. Since no one has come up to address this, it is
incumbent on us then to come forward and debunk the allegations."

The Speaker then used the medium to challenge the Governor, the Finance Commissioner and the Accountant General of the state to 'prove that we have been collecting N800 million per month since the onset of this administration.

"Thank God, the governor is before us here today; so also, is the Finance commissioner sitting in this hallowed chamber. I likewise challenge the faceless group to prove that this Assembly has been collecting N800 million per month as alleged."

 Obasa added that the event was also an opportunity to shed more light on "unsubstantiated allegations regarding financial misappropriation, which is a clearly well-orchestrated campaign to disrepute my character and integrity as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, and by implication tarnish the image of the legislative arm of the state government."

He emphasized that  the monthly running cost of the Lagos State
House of Assembly covers the entire expenditure of the House
comprising the 40 elected legislators and the administration of over
700 staff.

According to him, it includes sundry items such as travels, training (both local and overseas) office running and maintenance, vehicles, entertainment, publicity, security, protocols, logistics and administrativecosts among others.
'Dear Lagosians, as an arm of government, we are not at odds with
the Governor over anything.

"Rather, we are diligently playing our roles in contributing to the transparent and accountable governance that has made Lagos the envy of all and a model frame of reference in terms of development in this political dispensation.

"We need to remind ourselves that democracy is about institution and we must all learn to protect this. We must not, in whatever
circumstance, derogate or smear this institution. Failure to do so will affect our democracy," he said.

Obasa thanked meaningful Lagosians and Nigerians, who he said had been calling to ensure that peace reign in Lagos as well as the quick presentation of the budget.

He appreciated the likes Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos, Alhaji Musiliu Adeola Kunbi Smith, members of Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, all members of Governing Advisory Council (GAC), the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof Yemi Oshinbajo and particularly APC National Leader, Ashiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu "for their concerted efforts towards ensuring that peace reign supreme among all the three arms of government in Lagos State."

He explained that the role of budget in economy and its essence
are key as provided in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) in Section
121, stipulating that the Governor must prepare and lay the budget
before the House, which he said now creates the avenue to incur expenditure.
"All the arms of government must work together to ensure economic
growth and human development.

"We also need to know that infrastructure of the state is crucial, and the position of Lagos State is germane in Nigeria and its West African suburbs.
"Being the fifth largest economy in Africa, everything must be done to sustain the leadership quality of Lagos State in all spheres.

"Nevertheless, may I call on the governor that with the few months to go, he should endeavour to attend to urgent needs of Lagosians
especially by addressing the inner roads of the state as well as issue
of environment.

"We should be cognizant of the fact that the essence of democratic governance is that people remain the object of development," he said
The Speaker said that with the remaining parts of this tenure, more could still be done to ease socio – economic problems, particularly on finishing all road projects and rehabilitations, provision of housing, making surethat our environment is clean and poverty alleviation programmes embarked upon, before the end of this administration.

"As we hope that the Y2019 Budget will be of great benefit to the
people of Lagos State, we however appeal to His Excellency and
Lagosians to give us sufficient time to enable the House do a thorough job on a financial document that has great influence on the lives of the people.

"The Assembly would not delay the passage of the budget, but we will be interested in placing high premium on the need to ensure that the interests of Lagosian are protected socio-economically and politically. We are your representatives here at the House of assembly and we are duty bound to do justice to every sector of the state’s economy.

"May I use this medium, however, to appeal to everyone, especially
Lagosians to be law abiding as we prepare for the general elections. I
urge us all to come out en masse to support the continuation of the
good jobs our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has embarked on since the beginning of our administration by voting for all our candidates at all levels in the forthcoming elections as we move on to the Next Level," he said.

Y2019 Budget'll Be of Great Benefit To Lagosian, Says Obasa

AgegePulse Magazine

The Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa has today expressed optimism that the budget would be of great benefit to the people of the State.

Obasa stated this briefly after the presentation of the proposed N852.316Bn Y2019 Budget presented by the Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode at House of Assembly Complex, Alausa Ikeja.


He assured that the House would work with the executive to pass the budget aptly.


According to the  Governor, N462.757billion representing 54 percent of the total budget size had been earmarked for capital expenditure, while N389.560billion representing 46 percent had been dedicated to recurrent expenditure, saying that key projects such as the Oshodi-Murtala Mohammed International Airport Road, Agege Pen Cinema Flyover bridge and Oshodi Interchange Terminal, among others would be completed.


“In 2019, as was with our previous budgets, Economic Affairs still dominates the sectoral allocation of the proposed budget. This is due to our continued focus on the completion of major on-going projects such as: Oshodi-Murtala Mohammed International Airport Road; Agege Pen Cinema Flyover; Phase II of Aradagun-Iworo -Epeme Road, Oshodi Interchange Terminal; completion of JK Randle Complex, Onikan Stadium; Imota Rice Mill; Renovation/Furnishing of Lagos Revenue House, amongst others in order to meet their specified deliverable outcomes without any bias or prejudice to others.” Ambode asserted.

OBASA: The Rallying Point for Agege APC

By Hon.(Rotn) Isola Ogunsola

AgegePulse Magazine

Yesterday rally was indeed a great one.
A loud statement made yesterday is that Agege is solid more than before with the right and purposeful leadership being offered by Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa who is ably encouraged & supported by other elders and leaders of our party in Agege.

This rare bred political strategist have been able to carry everyone along both old & young.

No wonder everybody in Agege are doing their bit to ensure he continues as the rallying point for all of us to attain our potentials.

May God continue to strengthen and bless Rt. Hon. Obasa for his commitment to keep the party one strong & reliable family irrespective of the cost to him in terms of his Talent, Time and Treasure.

LAGOS ASSEMBLY DECRIES CONDITION OF ABATTOIRS IN THE STATE

Lawmakers in the Lagos State House of Assembly have expressed dissatisfaction over the poor and unsanitary condition of abattoirs in the state.

The lawmakers observed the deplorable condition of abattoirs within the Lagos metropolis and the neglect of modern slaughtering facilities provided by the government, but that butchers slaughter and process meat in the open, which according to them is crude, filthy and unhygienic.

It was  further observed that despite the huge investment of the Lagos State Government in the agricultural sector over the years, especially on the purchase of modern machine  for slaughtering meat in hygienic manner to preventing outbreak of diseases, the state’s abattoirs have not been utilised them.

The lawmakers also frowned at the means by which the processed meat is being conveyed on motorbike, car-trunk and other illicit means with impunity in the state.

Contributing, Hon. Rotimi Olowo suggested the need for the House Committee on Agriculture to embark on inspection tour and investigate the present condition of the abattoirs after which the House will decide further actions on the outcome of the investigation.

 Hon. Bisi Yusuf, representing Alimosho constituency I, stated that “the condition of the abattoir is very dirty and irritating,” and suggested that the Ministry of Agriculture should inspect and monitor activities in the abattoirs.

The Majority Leader, Hon. Agunbiade added that, “there is need for the Committee on Agriculture to do an oversight of all the abattoirs in the state”.

“I suggest that necessary agencies should take holistic view into the conduct and the state of the abattoir and report back to the House because the image of the state is at stake and unnecessary activities have been going on in the abattoir," Hon. Tunde Braimoh stated.

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa noted that the motion had exposed raging issues in the state’s abattoir. According to him, the existing law on abattoirs  which provides for the individuals should be encouraged.

He therefore mandated the Committee on Agriculture to make visit to all the abattoirs in the state and report to the House within two weeks.

Lagos speaker, 99 others pick APC nomination forms

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress on Thursday said no fewer than 100 aspirants had picked up nomination forms to contest the state House of Assembly primary election in the last two days.

The Assistant Publicity Secretary, Mr Abiodun Salami, gave the figure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos.

He said the secretariat had been besieged by aspirants seeking the party’s tickets since the sale of forms commenced on Wednesday.
Salami said the Speaker of the Assembly, Mr Mudashiru Obasa and the Deputy Speaker, Mr Sanni Eshinlokun, were some of the lawmakers who had picked nomination forms for re-election.

“Yes, aspirants have been coming to the secretariat to pick their forms since the exercise started yesterday.

“So far, more than 100 aspirants, including the Speaker of the House of Assembly and his Deputy, have picked up their forms.

“We are making the process as transparent as possible. It is an open thing and we are expecting more aspirants to come for their forms before the tentative deadline of Monday,”  he said.

Salami said the party was committed to the ideals of internal democracy and would ensure candidates emerged through popular elections.

NAN