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‘Sins’ That Cost Lagos Speaker His Seat

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Former Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa

Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa had his eyes on the governorship seat of Lagos when his colleagues booted him out of office on Monday.

Reports on Obasa’s interest in the coveted seat were discarded as mere rumour in some quarters, but the message became clearer after the Archbishop of Methodist Church Nigeria (Lagos), Most Rev. Isaac Ayo Olawuyi, indirectly drummed up support for the three-term speaker during the Lagos House of Assembly’s 22nd Annual Thanksgiving Service.

At the event which the former Speaker attended, Olawuyi had said in the interest of religious tolerance, Lagosians should elect a Muslim as governor in 2027.

“I also want to add that we have consideration for religious inclination in Lagos State. It would be 12 years in 2027 that we have been in the system together and we have been having Christians as governors. Now, it’s time to give our Muslim brothers a chance to govern us in Lagos State. We want to pray that when it’s time for the election, it would be a time for us to elect who will govern us in Lagos State effectively,” the Archbishop had said.

He went further to praise the former Speaker for his leadership and collaboration with the other arms of government, saying these have kept the state strong.

“You have been a true and sensitive leader with a big heart. You have proved yourself worthy. We pray that God will continue to use you to make us smile in Lagos and also grant you your heart desires,” he said.

After that event, the campaign for Obasa regained momentum while the former Speaker carried on with glee. However, he was impeached on Monday, about a month after that endorsement. For a man who lasted that long in a slippery political environment, how did such fate befall him? How did his adversaries get him?

According to reports, Obasa’s travail began after the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), the highest decision-making body of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos reported him to President Bola Tinubu.

Putting it mildly, a chieftain of the ruling party who spoke off the record said, “The seemingly insurmountable walls around him started crumbling during the End-of-The Year break. His fate was sealed after our elders visited the president. That meeting nailed his political coffin.”

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During the visit, insiders said top on the agenda of the GAC was the cold war between Obasa and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Although Sanwo-Olu and Obasa have had a running battle, the matter came to a head during the 2025 budget presentation.

Obasa stoked controversy when he declared that he was not too young or lacked experience to run for Lagos governor.

He had said, “I am not too young or lacking experience to run. Those who have been before me are not better off… I have made it a personal task to mobilize people on the platform of Mandate, which some political detractors have misconstrued as being a selfish aspiration on the ground for me to become governor of the state.”

Making such remark on live TV and right in the presence of Sanwo-Olu had drawn the ire of the party leadership in the state and they waited for a ripe time to tender their grievances before their leader.

The chairman of GAC, Alhaji Tajudeen Olusi, was said to have started the discussion by reminding the president of how highly the governor’s office was when he governed between 1999 and 2007.

He reportedly told the president how disrespectful Obasa had been to Sanwo-Olu, citing several instances. Tinubu was said to have openly lashed the former speaker for not just disrespecting the governor but also the GAC and party elders.

Since that moment, the forces against Obasa restrategised and his colleagues who had collectively at random got him into the record books as one of the longest speakers in the country, finally turned the page on his enviable political career.

Below are some of the controversies of the politician who was elected into the hallowed chamber while serving as councillor in Agege local government area of the state.

Move to scrap LCDAs

One of the issues which sparked controversy under Obasa was the move by the House under his leadership to abolish the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) created when Tinubu was governor.

After the Supreme Court granted autonomy to the 774 local governments in Nigeria, the Lagos House introduced a bill to scrap the LCDAs and replace them with newly designated administrative areas.

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The bill titled “Bill for a law to provide for the local governments’ system, establishment, and administration, and to consolidate all laws on local government administration”, sought to recognise 20 LGAs in the state as outlined in the 1999 constitution.

Kicking against it, Sunday Ojelabi, Chairman of APC in Lagos, had said, “Our position as a progressive party is that we cannot discountenance the contributions of the LCDAs to the overall political and socio-economic development of the state.

“Our landscape is dotted by several infrastructural projects by the LCDAs which include road, drainage and market construction, school and housing projects, primary education and health facilities and various social service interventions etc. The various collaborative efforts with the state government on refuse disposal, drain clearing and security are also pointers to their continuous relevance.”

Rejecting Sanwo-Olu’s commissioners

In 2023, Obasa was involved in another controversy over the row between him and Sanwo-Olu on the confirmation of commissioners. The House under his leadership allegedly refused to clear close to half (17) of the 39 commissioner nominees recommended by the governor.

Among those rejected were six persons who served in the cabinet of Sanwo-Olu during his first term. The noise from that drama reverberated across the country warranting the GAC to meet with both parties in search for a truce.

While reacting to the criticisms that trailed the decision of the House, Obasa had said there is no fight between the lawmakers and the governor adding that “but we have constitutional rights to say yes or no to his nominees”.

The statement was seen as a daring one to the leaders of the party in the state and overbearing on his alleged political ambition.

‘Operating multiple accounts’

In a series of investigative pieces in 2020, Whistleblowing platform, SaharaReporters said it traced multiple accounts to the Bank Verification Number (BVN) of the former speaker. According to the platform, the accounts registered with various names were being used to siphon public funds.

“At least 64 bank accounts have been discovered to be linked to Obasa registered with various names allegedly used to siphon public funds in Lagos. The BVN reveals that Obasa operates accounts with multiple names in Polaris Bank, Zenith Bank, Access Bank, Ecobank Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, United Bank for Africa, First City Monument Bank and Wema Bank.

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“To conceal his identity, the Speaker changed his name and date of birth in some of the accounts. Aside from using Ajayi Mudashiru Obasa, he also used Obasa Abdulrahman Gbadunola and Gabriel Adedoyin Savage to register some of the bank accounts. Some of the companies linked to the BVN include Adesav International Ventures, Fabric Splash Ventures, Swifthi international ventures and Quick Solution International.

“Others are Quick solution International Ventures, White Honey Enterprises, Cream on Ice Services, A.B DELCO Nigeria Company, and Fabric Splash Ventures, Skye-Macosh Company, Swifthill International Ventures, Silver Section Global, Davedab Global Ventures and Jose-Macosh Company and De Kingrun,” the report read.

Whilst the smoke from that controversy was yet to settle, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) invited him for questioning, but he denied the allegations, blaming them on his political opponents.

N17bn Obasagate

A group, the Lagos State Anti-Corruption Coalition, had alleged that the Assembly under Obasa’s leadership allocated N17 billion for the construction of a gate and called for an investigation into the matter.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the anti-corruption group petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to probe the House leadership for awarding the gate contract.

Addressing the allegations during a plenary session, Obasa attributed the claims to political fears surrounding the 2027 elections, which remain over two years away.

“It is so funny. How much is the allocation of the Assembly in the whole year that we will decide to spend N17 billion on a gate? They even claimed that we expended 200 million on thanksgiving that did not hold.

“We are aware that at a period like this, when we are approaching elections in 2027, we should expect such things. I think some people are scared, and I don’t know why.

“This House did not and has not embarked on any such project. We are not that reckless. We had our thanksgiving last Friday, and dignitaries from various parts of the state attended it,” Obasa had said.

 Daily Trust

NEWS

Ekwunife Celebrates Bishop Ezeokafor at 74, Hails His Service to Church and Humanity

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The APC Anambra Central Senatorial Candidate, Distinguished Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, FCNA, has celebrated the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Chukwuemeka Ezeokafor, on the occasion of his 74th birthday anniversary.

In a goodwill message shared on her official Facebook page, Senator Ekwunife thanked God for the life of the revered Bishop, while acknowledging his wisdom, dedicated service to the Catholic Church and contributions to humanity.

The former Senator prayed that God Almighty would continue to strengthen Bishop Ezeokafor, crown his efforts with greater accomplishments and bless his pastoral ministry as the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese.

Senator Ekwunife concluded her message with warm birthday wishes to the Bishop, celebrating him on the remarkable milestone.

Her message reads:

“On this special occasion of your 74th birthday anniversary, I warmly celebrate you, Your Lordship, and thank God for the gift of your life, wisdom, and dedicated service to the Catholic Church and humanity.

“May the Almighty continue to strengthen you, crown your efforts with greater accomplishments and bless your pastoral ministry as the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese.

“Happy Birthday, Your Lordship!”

The message was signed by Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, FCNA.

 

See post here on Facebook 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CjBRrL9aZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr

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Ekwunife Bags Prestigious ANAN Fellowship, Becomes FCNA

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The APC Flag Bearer for Anambra Central Senatorial District, Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife, has added another prestigious professional distinction to her credentials following her formal admission as a Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN).

Ekwunife was conferred with the prestigious fellowship on September 10, 2026, earning her the professional designation Fellow Certified National Accountant (FCNA).

According to the Certificate of Fellowship issued by ANAN, Senator Ekwunife satisfied all conditions prescribed by the Association’s Council before she was duly admitted into the fellowship.

The certificate bears Membership Number 32594 and Certificate Number 005306.

The latest recognition marks another significant milestone in Ekwunife’s professional journey, further strengthening her credentials as an accountant and public-sector leader with extensive experience in governance, representation and public service.

The Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN) was established in 1979 and chartered by Act No. 76 of 1993, making it one of Nigeria’s recognised professional accounting bodies.

With the new honour, Senator Ekwunife joins the fellowship of ANAN and can now officially be addressed professionally as Uche Lilian Ekwunife, FCNA.

The development adds yet another professional milestone to the profile of the former Senator, who is currently seeking to return to the National Assembly as the APC candidate for Anambra Central Senatorial District in the 2027 election.

Signed:
Tony Ezike
Special Adviser, Media & Publicity

See picture on Facebook here 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1ETcdFHTyz/?mibextid=wwXIfr

 

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Anambra Monarchs Honour Oluremi Tinubu as “Ugoeze-Anambra”; Ekwunife Hails First Lady as Rare Bridge-Builder (See Pictures)

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The traditional rulers of Anambra State have honoured Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, with the prestigious traditional title of “Ugoeze-Anambra”, in recognition of her contributions to unity, humanitarian development and the welfare of vulnerable Nigerians.

The honour was warmly welcomed by the APC Anambra Central Senatorial Candidate, Distinguished Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, who congratulated the First Lady and described her as a rare bridge-builder, an outstanding leader, a dependable colleague and a woman with a heart of gold.

Ekwunife, who also serves as the Zonal Director, South-East, APC Presidential Campaign Council, Directorate of Election Planning, Coordination and Monitoring, said the conferment reflects the deep affection and appreciation of the people of Anambra State for Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

According to her, the First Lady has continued to demonstrate commitment to strengthening unity, empowering citizens and improving the welfare of vulnerable Nigerians through various humanitarian interventions.

Speaking after receiving the traditional title, Senator Oluremi Tinubu expressed appreciation to the traditional rulers and people of Anambra State for the honour and warm reception.

She declared that “Anambra State holds a special place in my heart.”

The First Lady also commended the First Lady of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, particularly for her compassion towards the less privileged through the Healthy Living Initiative, describing the programme as a life-changing intervention.

Senator Tinubu further appreciated the Anambra State Government and the people of the state for the reception accorded her. She acknowledged the provision of empowerment materials for 5,000 beneficiaries, sponsored by the state government under Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

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She also highlighted the Food Bank Programme, describing it as an intervention aimed at nourishing and supporting vulnerable people, with significant benefits expected to extend across Anambra State and the wider South-East region.

Reacting to the development, Senator Ekwunife said the conferment of “Ugoeze-Anambra” represents a powerful recognition of Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s bridge-building role, humanitarian interventions and commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

The event brought together traditional rulers, government officials, dignitaries and stakeholders who joined in celebrating the First Lady and the special recognition bestowed upon her by Anambra’s traditional institution.

Signed:
Tony Ezike
Special Adviser, Media & Publicity

See pictures from the event on Facebook below

https://www.facebook.com/share/1B2iU7aP1U/?mibextid=wwXIfr

 

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Senator Uche Ekwunife Secures ANSAA Out-of-Home Campaign Permit Ahead of 2027 Election (See Pictures)

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Yesterday, APC Senatorial Candidate for Anambra Central, Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, officially obtained the Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSAA) Out-of-Home Political Campaign Permit ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

The permit, issued in preparation for the election scheduled for January 16, 2027, was presented on behalf of ANSAA by the Assistant General Manager and Officer-in-Charge, Engr. Ngobili Chika (ARPA), to Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON.

The approval authorizes the APC Senatorial Candidate to commence the lawful deployment of approved out-of-home political campaign materials across the Anambra Central Senatorial District, in line with the agency’s regulations and guidelines.

The permitted campaign materials include posters, banners, branded vehicles, public address systems, flyers, campaign T-shirts, street storm materials, rally branding, and other approved political publicity materials.

The development underscores the importance of conducting political campaigns within the framework of existing laws and regulatory requirements as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.

ANSAA, as the state agency responsible for regulating signage and outdoor advertising.

With the permit secured, Senator Uche Ekwunife’s campaign team can now proceed with the deployment of approved outdoor campaign materials across Anambra Central in accordance with ANSAA regulations.

See picture below

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CULTURE AND TRADITION

Just In: Senator Uche Ekwunife Arrives Adazi-Ani for Grand Royal Coronation of Eze Chinechendo I (See Details)

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Tony Ezike Reports,

The Anambra Central APC Senatorial Candidate, Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, has arrived Adazi-Ani in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State for the grand coronation ceremony of His Royal Majesty, Dr. Chinedu Benson Madubuko, OFR, as Eze Chinechendo I of Adazi-Ani.

The grand royal ceremony is being held today, Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the Adazi-Ani Town Hall, Community High School, Adazi, and is organised by the Adazi-Ani Town Union (ATU).

The coronation formally marks the installation and celebration of Dr. Chinedu Benson Madubuko, OFR, as the traditional ruler of Adazi-Ani, in an event that has attracted prominent traditional rulers, political leaders, community leaders, dignitaries, friends and well-wishers from within and outside the community.

Senator Ekwunife’s arrival further adds colour to the historic gathering, as she joins other distinguished guests and stakeholders to celebrate the new monarch and the people of Adazi-Ani.

The occasion is expected to feature cultural displays, goodwill messages and other activities celebrating the rich heritage and unity of the Adazi-Ani community.

The grand coronation continues to draw attention as members of the community and invited guests gather to witness the historic royal event.

Congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Eze Chinechendo I, on his coronation.

More details to follow….

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Ekwunife Celebrates Youths on International Youth Day, Calls for Greater Opportunities

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Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, has felicitated with youths in Anambra State and across the world as they mark the 2026 International Youth Day, urging governments, institutions and stakeholders to create more opportunities for young people to thrive.

In her message, Ekwunife said this year’s theme, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” aptly captures the shared dreams and aspirations of young people, regardless of their different backgrounds and circumstances.

She noted that young people everywhere desire dignity, quality education, decent employment, meaningful opportunities and a better future.

The former Senator emphasized that youths remain vital partners in the development of society, stressing the need for greater investment in areas that can unlock their potential and prepare them for the future.

According to her, deliberate investments in education, skills development, technology, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities are essential to empowering young people to become productive contributors to economic and social development.

Ekwunife further encouraged young people to remain resilient, innovative and committed to pursuing their dreams, assuring them that their aspirations and contributions remain important to the progress of society.

She wished youths a fruitful celebration and expressed hope for a future where young people will have greater opportunities to realize their potential.

“Happy International Youth Day to our resilient, talented and promising youths. May your aspirations find expression and fulfilment,” she said.

The statement was signed by Tony Ezike, Special Adviser, Media & Publicity.

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“A Beautiful Woman In and Out”: Ekwunife Celebrates Dame Ezinwa Jane Onyewelu at 70

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AWKA — Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, has celebrated Dame Ezinwa Jane Onyewelu, JP, on the occasion of her 70th birthday, describing her as “a beautiful woman in and out” and a shining testimony of God’s enduring grace.

Ekwunife made the remarks at a colourful reception held at the Senator Uche Ekwunife Centre in Awka to mark the milestone birthday of the respected celebrant.

The Senator noted that attaining the age of 70 is a remarkable privilege that calls for gratitude to God, stressing that such a milestone should not be taken for granted.

“Seventy years can only be attained by God’s grace. It is not something we should take for granted. Today, we are here to celebrate a beautiful woman, a beautiful soul and a life that has touched many people in different ways,” Ekwunife said.

The former federal lawmaker also commended the family members, friends and caregivers who have continued to surround Dame Ezinwa with love, care and support.

According to her, the dedication and commitment shown by those caring for the celebrant are a reflection of the kind of person Dame Ezinwa has been to the people around her.

“To all those taking care of her, God will bless you. Thank you for honouring this beautiful soul, for loving her and for making sure that she continues to enjoy the blessings that come with this stage of life.”

Ekwunife further prayed for God’s continued protection, good health and abundant blessings upon the celebrant, while wishing her many more fruitful and fulfilling years.

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She said the 70th birthday should not merely be seen as a celebration of age, but as a celebration of God’s faithfulness throughout Dame Ezinwa’s journey.

“At 70, we are not counting the years alone; we are celebrating God’s faithfulness. May the years ahead be even more beautiful than the years behind. Congratulations, Dame Ezinwa. May God continue to bless you abundantly.”

The celebration brought together family members, friends, well-wishers and associates who joined Dame Ezinwa to commemorate the significant milestone and celebrate seven decades of life, grace and impact.

Signed:
Tony Ezike
Special Adviser, Media & Publicity

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Ekwunife Celebrates Obiano, Ngige, Extols Their Legacies in Anambra, Nigeria

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Distinguished Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, has felicitated with former Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, and former Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, as they celebrate their respective birthday anniversaries.

In separate birthday messages, Senator Ekwunife described the two prominent Anambra sons as distinguished leaders who have made significant contributions to the development of the state and the country at large.

Ekwunife commended the administration of former Governor Willie Obiano for what she described as notable contributions to key sectors of Anambra State, including security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and community development.

According to her, Obiano’s tenure remains significant in the state’s development journey, particularly for the initiatives and policies implemented during his administration.

The former Senator also celebrated Senator Chris Ngige for his contributions to the development of Anambra State and his distinguished service at the national level.

She particularly acknowledged Ngige’s role as Minister of Labour and Employment, noting his efforts in advancing labour relations, employment opportunities and the welfare of Nigerian workers.

Senator Ekwunife wished both elder statesmen continued good health, renewed strength and many more years of meaningful contributions to society.

“Happy birthday to two distinguished sons of Anambra. May God continue to bless you with wisdom, good health and longevity,” she said.

The goodwill message was signed by Tony Ezike, Special Adviser, Media & Publicity.

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HEALTH

After Oko Hostel Tragedy, Sen. Uche Ekwunife Calls for Tougher Building Safety Enforcement (See details)

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The Most Distinguished Senator Uche Ekwunife, CON, has expressed deep sadness over the tragic collapse of a student hostel in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, which claimed lives and left several others injured.

In a statement issued following the incident, Senator Ekwunife extended her heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, describing the loss of lives as a painful tragedy for the bereaved families, the Oko community, and Anambra State as a whole.

She also expressed concern for those who survived the collapse and are currently receiving medical treatment, praying for their quick and complete recovery.

While commending the efforts of rescue workers, security personnel, healthcare providers, volunteers, and community members involved in the emergency response, the former senator urged them to sustain the search-and-rescue operation until every missing person is accounted for.

Senator Ekwunife further called on the appropriate authorities to conduct a thorough, transparent, and impartial investigation into the cause of the building collapse. She stressed that establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident is crucial not only for ensuring accountability but also for preventing similar tragedies in the future.

She also advocated stricter monitoring and enforcement of building regulations across Anambra State, emphasizing that adherence to approved construction standards and professional guidelines must be treated as a critical public safety responsibility rather than a mere administrative requirement.

According to her, stronger enforcement by relevant regulatory agencies would significantly reduce the risk of building failures and help safeguard lives and property.

Senator Ekwunife concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of the souls of those who lost their lives, divine comfort for their grieving families, and speedy healing for those injured in the unfortunate incident.

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The statement was signed by Tony Ezike, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Senator Uche Ekwunife.

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