Atiku slams Tinubu’s silence on Lagos Assembly crisis, calls for defence of democracy

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s silence on the Lagos Assembly crisis, describing it as an endorsement of anti-democratic tactics and a threat to Nigeria’s democratic principles

 

[dropcap]F[/dropcap]ormer Vice President Atiku Abubakar has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu for his silence amid the escalating crisis at the Lagos State House of Assembly, accusing him of endorsing undemocratic tactics through inaction.

Also read: Lagos Assembly crisis deepens as Speaker Mojisola Meranda’s security withdrawn

In a statement released Thursday by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku condemned the alleged “backdoor tactics” and the involvement of state-backed security forces in reversing the removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa — a move opposed by the majority of Assembly members.

Obasa’s dramatic re-entry into the Assembly complex earlier in the day, flanked by security escorts, has sparked widespread outcry.

Despite his impeachment by a significant majority, Obasa insists on retaining his position, deepening political tensions in the state.

Atiku argued that President Tinubu’s failure to address the crisis raises serious concerns about his commitment to democracy.

Referring to allegations made by former Kaduna State governor Nasir el-Rufai about Tinubu’s selective political control, Atiku warned that the president’s inaction could be seen as complicity.

“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 battleground between the values of integrity and fairness—known as the Omoluabi ethos—and strong-arm tactics driven by coercion and political control.

Calling for urgent intervention, Atiku urged the president to publicly denounce any efforts to undermine democratic processes and ensure due process is followed in resolving the Assembly’s leadership tussle.

“Nigeria’s democracy was hard-fought and must not be undermined by those who should be its foremost guardians.

Also read: Lagos Assembly pledges support for equity, inclusion in governance

We urge all well-meaning Nigerians to remain vigilant and resolute in defending the sanctity of our democratic institutions,” Atiku added.