There are strong indications that the incumbent Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, has been given the go-ahead by the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to run for a third term, while his rival, Abiodun Tobun, who represents Epe Constituency 1, may emerge as Deputy Speaker, ahead of today’s inauguration of the 10th Lagos State House of Assembly and the election of its principal officers.

The Guardian learned Monday that Obasa had been exonerated on the condition that he treat and respect all Assembly members equally going forward.

According to a source from the Executive arm who spoke to The Guardian, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who seemed unconcerned about whether or not President Obasa should return, may have given his approval on the grounds that since Obasa is now aware of the negative perceptions of him that exist, “the Speaker is mature enough to amend his ways and relate peacefully with people.”

“However, Obasa may need to exercise caution as he seeks a third term because President Bola Tinubu, who usually controls and dictates what happens in Lagos politics, will suddenly be highly preoccupied with national affairs, according to Obasa.

“If the Speaker is shown to be lacking, he might be subject to impeachment. The Speaker had been feverishly trying to hold onto the seat ever since the Tobun’s interest first surfaced, and luck shined on him when the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) intervened to agree for Obasa to remain in office, the source claimed.

It was reported that the GAC convened in Lagos last week to discuss the developing situation, especially in light of the fact that it would not look good if President Tinubu’s political stronghold, Lagos, were to be seen to be in disarray.