Atiku tackles Tinubu over silence on Lagos assembly crisis, calls for democratic integrity

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu for his silence on the unfolding political turmoil in the Lagos State House of Assembly, describing it as a tacit endorsement of anti-democratic tactics.

In a statement issued Thursday by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku condemned what he termed “backdoor tactics” and the use of state-backed security forces to reverse the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, despite his ousting by a majority of lawmakers.

Obasa had earlier stormed the Lagos Assembly complex, insisting he remained Speaker, despite opposition from most members.

Atiku argued that Tinubu’s refusal to intervene raises serious concerns about his commitment to democratic principles, especially in light of recent allegations by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, who accused Tinubu of engaging in selective political control.

“Despite his undisputed influence over Lagos politics, President Bola Tinubu has remained conspicuously silent on the matter. His refusal to address the crisis suggests a tacit endorsement of the anti-democratic maneuvers aimed at imposing his preferred candidate against the overwhelming will of Assembly members,” Atiku stated.

He further accused Tinubu of turning Lagos politics into a battle between noble Omoluabi values—integrity, fairness, and public service—and the strong-arm tactics of Area Boy politics, where power is retained through coercion rather than consensus.

“Nigeria’s democracy was hard-fought and must not be undermined by those who should be its foremost guardians. We urge all well-meaning Nigerians to remain vigilant and resolute in defending the sanctity of our democratic institutions,” he added.