The Lagos State House of Assembly on Tuesday delivered a heartfelt eulogy to its long-serving leader, Dr. Mudashiru Obasa, marking a decade of his impactful speakership. Members lauded Speaker Obasa’s transformative leadership, highlighting significant positive changes within the legislative house since he assumed the role.
During the plenary session, which saw Honorable Ajomale step down a motion to allow for tributes, commendations for Speaker Obasa’s growth as a leader and his unwavering commitment to the people of Lagos State resonated throughout the chamber.
Ajomale also proposed the establishment of a legislative institution and yearly legislative awards in honour of Obasa’s 10 years as Speaker.
He acknowledged the critical need to cultivate true legislative leaders, referencing experiences where new members struggled to acclimate to their roles. “Creating this institute,” he stated, “would allow us to create better followers, better leaders, people like the speaker.”
The Deputy Majority Leader, Ikeja Constituency 2, Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, commended the speaker for streamlining the state legislative house after his transition from a different legislative body. He emphasised the palpable evolution of the House under Obasa’s guidance, noting a stark contrast between the legislative body in 2015 and its current state in 2025, attributing the positive shifts to Speaker Obasa’s tenure.
He further lauded Speaker Obasa’s development from a “good listener to a great listener and an actionable listener” over the past ten years. “This evolution,” he remarked, “has been a cornerstone of your respected leadership, which demonstrated an astute understanding of the legislative atmosphere and a foresight to elevate it.”
He added that Obasa has been a teacher, father, and brother to his colleagues, with his steadfast loyalty to President Bola Tinubu being a contributing factor to his political success. “Whatever ability you put into service, in the years of service, will speak for you, whether good or bad. But for the speaker, it has helped in many, many great ways,” he concluded.
Constituency. Ifako Ijaiye, Owolabi James, hailed Obasa as “the greatest speaker of our time,” asserting that his legislative prowess is unmatched by many across Africa. “The strengthened institution of the House was directly attributed to his dedicated work,” Owolabi said, “with some within party circles reportedly referring to him as the strength, the pillar that is holding up this institution.” He highlighted Obasa’s “doggedness and tenacity in getting things done.”
Desmond Elliot commended the speaker’s unwavering focus on ensuring that all legislative actions ultimately benefit the citizens of Lagos State. “Whenever a new law, a new bill is brought to the floor,” Elliot stated, “the speaker will always put the citizens first.”
“10 years, a decade, is not an easy feat,” especially within the challenging political landscape of Lagos State, a point reiterated by multiple members. Speaker Obasa’s decade of service, they affirmed, has not only transformed the legislative house but has also set a commendable example of dedicated public service focused on the welfare of the people.
In his emotional response, Speaker Obasa praised God Almighty, his parents, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the people of Agege for playing a crucial role in his journey. “I joined the house in 2003, and they have always been there for me. Whatever I became today, Almighty Allah used people for me,” he humbly stated. He also extended his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, acknowledging his support from 2015 to date.
Addressing his colleagues, Speaker Obasa said, “My colleague, without your support, there is no way I can serve for 10 years. Whatever happens between us is a lesson to all of us.”
He urged them always to prioritise the institution and never allow external interference.
“The value of this house is not only important to us but to the people of Lagos,” he emphasised. “The only thing I ask for as a birthday gift is putting the house first. I thank you for this honour. It is because of your support that made it possible for me to serve as the speaker.”