How Remi Tinubu shielded Obasa from arrest emerges
Recent reports have surfaced alleging that Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu, intervened to prevent the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from arresting former Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, who faces allegations of misappropriating public funds. Unnamed presidency sources claim that Mrs. Tinubu emphasized Obasa’s political influence in areas like Agege and Alimosho, suggesting that his arrest could destabilize the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State.
Mudashiru Obasa, who served as Speaker from June 2015 until his impeachment in January 2025, has been embroiled in multiple corruption scandals. In 2020, reports accused him of misappropriating public funds and accumulating unexplained wealth. Obasa denied these claims, but the EFCC initiated an investigation, summoning him for questioning in October 2020. Despite the gravity of the allegations, no charges were filed at that time.
The situation escalated in January 2025 when Obasa was impeached over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office. Following his removal, reports indicated that the EFCC was prepared to arrest and interrogate him regarding the alleged embezzlement of ₦43.5 billion in state funds. Obasa, who was in the United States at the time, reportedly attempted to meet with President Bola Tinubu in the United Arab Emirates to seek support, but clearance for the meeting was denied. Upon his return to Nigeria, EFCC operatives were reportedly stationed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, ready to apprehend him.
In the midst of these developments, there are rumours that First Lady Remi Tinubu intervened, advising against Obasa’s immediate arrest. She purportedly argued that his political influence was vital for maintaining unity within the APC in Lagos State and that legal action against him could lead to internal divisions. As a result, EFCC agents were allegedly instructed to delay action against Obasa.
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This alleged intervention has sparked significant reactions among Nigerians. Critics argue that it undermines the independence of the EFCC and the broader fight against corruption. They contend that political considerations should not interfere with legal processes, especially in cases involving substantial public funds. Supporters of Mrs. Tinubu, however, assert that her actions were aimed at preserving party unity and preventing potential political crises in Lagos State.
This is not the first time Remi Tinubu has been at the center of controversy. In May 2021, during a public hearing on constitutional review in Lagos, she was criticized for reportedly calling a woman a “thug” during a disagreement. The incident led to widespread condemnation, with many Nigerians expressing their disapproval of her conduct.
As of now, there has been no official response from the First Lady, the State House, or the EFCC regarding these recent allegations.
